Learning Support Assistant - immediate start

Welcome to Ada!

We are the National College for Digital Skills, established in 2016 as the first new Further Education College in England since 1993. Our mission is:  to educate and empower the next generation of diverse digital talent, and our values of Rigour, Resilience, Creativity, Curiosity and Collaboration sit at the heart of what we do and how we go about our work. We seek to harness tech as a positive tool for social mobility and improve the gender and ethnic diversity of the tech workforce.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a compassionate and patient Learning Support Assistant to join our dedicated team. In this role, you will work closely with students who require additional support to reach their full potential. Your primary responsibility will be to create a positive and inclusive learning environment while providing individualised assistance to students with varying needs.

Key Responsibilities:

●    Provide one-on-one or small group support: Work closely with students to address their individual learning needs, providing tailored support and encouragement.

●    Implement Individualised Education Programs (IEPs): Assist in developing and implementing IEPs, ensuring students receive the appropriate support and accommodations.

●    Assist with classroom activities: Collaborate with teachers to prepare learning materials, support classroom activities, and manage student behaviour.

●    Foster positive relationships: Build rapport with students, encouraging communication and creating a supportive learning environment.

●    Monitor student progress: Track student development, keep a daily record of support and progress, provide feedback to teachers and parents/guardians on their progress and areas for improvement.

●    Collaborate with other professionals: Work alongside teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and other relevant professionals to ensure a coordinated approach to student support.

●    Maintain accurate records: Keep detailed records of student progress, interventions, and any relevant observations.

●    Exam Access Arrangements: Support students in exams as required (reader,scribe, etc)

Qualifications and Skills:

●    Essential:

○    A passion for working with children and young people

○    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

○    Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude

○    A strong commitment to inclusive education

○    Ability to work independently and as part of a team

●    Desirable:

○    Experience working with students with special educational needs

○    Relevant qualifications in education or childcare

○    Knowledge of different learning styles and strategies

○    Experience of working with Level 3/ A-Level Students

Learning Support Assistant - Personal Specification

Essential:

●    Qualifications:

○    GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above

●    Experience:

○    Demonstrated experience working with children or young people, either in a paid or voluntary capacity

○    Experience working with individuals with diverse needs and learning styles

○    Experience of working in a school or college environment

●    Skills and Abilities:

○    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with students, teachers, and parents/guardians

○    Strong active listening skills and empathy, with the ability to understand and respond to the needs of individual students

○    Patience, resilience, and a positive, can-do attitude, even in challenging situations

○    Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team

○    Strong organisational and time-management skills

○    Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to safeguarding procedures

○    Commitment to ongoing professional development and a willingness to learn new skills and strategies

Desirable:

●    Qualifications:

○    Level 2 or 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (or equivalent)

○    Additional qualifications or training related to special educational needs

○    Degree or HE equivalent qualification in an Ada Subject e.g. Computer Science or Mathematics

●    Experience:

○    Experience working in an educational setting

○    Experience working with students with specific learning difficulties (e.g., ASC, dyslexia, ADHD) or disabilities

●    Knowledge:

○    Understanding of the national curriculum and different learning styles

○    Knowledge of child development and safeguarding procedures

Personal Qualities:

●    A passion for working with children and young people

●    A commitment to inclusive education and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed

●    A creative and adaptable approach to problem-solving

●    Enthusiasm, energy, and a sense of humour

Note: This personal specification is intended as a guide. We welcome applications from individuals who may not meet all the desirable criteria but can demonstrate their suitability for the role through their skills, experience, and passion for working with students.

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and young people and we expect all staff to share this commitment. Any job offer will be conditional on various, appropriate, pre-employment checks.

Equal opportunities

Ada. National College for Digital Skills recognises that equality of opportunity and the recognition and promotion of diversity are integral to its strengths.

Applicants with disabilities

Ada. National College for Digital Skills is keen to increase the number of disabled people it employs. We therefore encourage applications from individuals with a disability who are able to carry out the duties of the post. If you have special needs in relation to your application please write to us at jobs@ada.ac.uk .