PROTECTION OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PERSONS (THE CHILDREN’S ACT 1989)
Any offers of appointment will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (formerly CRB), a certificate of good conduct if applicable, plus receipt of satisfactory references, Occupational Health clearance, an understanding of safeguarding and qualifications verification. An Enhanced DBS check is required for this position as you will be working within 'Regulated Activity' within a specific place (i.e. the College).
This role is classed as working within Regulated Activity. It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. By applying for this position, you agree to an Enhanced DBS check in line with DBS regulations.
BACKGROUND TO THE POST
WCG is recognised as offering an inclusive and successful provision at all levels for Young People whose learning is affected by autism. The main purpose of this Specialist Learning Mentor post is to work with students with Autism Spectrum Conditions within their learning programme and help them towards achieving independence and reach their potential.
The Specialist Learning Mentor’s time will be spent with the identified student/s in a mentoring capacity both in the classroom/workshop/practical environment and 1:1 mentoring outside of taught sessions. There will be a requirement to undertake administrative tasks relating to recording student progress and supporting student retention and achievement.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
✓ To provide support 1:1 in-class, or mentoring support outside the classroom as directed by the SEN Team Leader/ASC Specialist Support Lead.
✓ To assist the class lecturer with the preparation/ adaptation of materials or activities for named student’s use.
✓ To actively promote and support independent learning, particularly through the use of technologies.
✓ To be a key worker for designated student/s to help reach their outcomes as stated in their EHCP.
✓ To support the Specialist Support Lead in the EHCP Annual Review Process.
✓ To work closely with the personal tutor/Personal Learning Adviser to ensure that the individual student targets are being monitored and reviewed.
✓ With knowledge/permission of personal tutor/ Personal Learning Adviser/SEN, Team Leader/Specialist Support Lead, make contact with parents, either by telephone or in writing where appropriate.
✓ To undertake training and development as required including Team Teach.
✓ To accompany and support the student during work experience placements, and/or trips, if appropriate.
✓ To undertake administrative duties which will include keeping their own records, completing ProMonitor records, updating tutors with student progress reports and completing regular student support/progress reviews.
✓ Work collaboratively with College staff to produce Individual Risk Assessment,
✓ Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans, and Medical Protocols and support the completion of exam access arrangements and Medical Protocols.
The list of duties is not exhaustive but outlines the main features of the post at appointment and may vary as the job evolves without affecting the nature of the duties or the responsibility level.
OFFERS OF WORK
For the successful candidate a conditional offer of work will be made. Our offer of work will be conditional upon a number of mandatory pre-employment checks, to include but not limited to: DBS, Barred List check, right to work check, internet search, TRA check (academic posts).
ESSENTIAL ATTAINMENTS
✓ Demonstrate English and Maths skills equivalent to Level 2.
✓ A qualification relevant to Specific Learning Difficulties at Level 2 or above.
✓ Working knowledge of information technology such as e-mail, the internet and other software applications, including assistive technologies
✓ Previous experience of supporting young people with Autism Spectrum Condition.
✓ Experience of liaison, advocacy and collaborative working
✓ Experience in working with learners on a 1-2-1 basis.
✓ Experience of coaching and motivating learners of different ages and abilities.
✓ Knowledge of Educational Health and Care Plans and the SEND Code of Practice (2014).
DESIRABLE ATTAINMENTS
✓ GCSE Grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or Level 2 equivalent qualification.
✓ A qualification in Autism Spectrum Condition.
✓ Previous experience of working in Further Education.
✓ Previous experience of managing students with behaviours for concern.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
✓ Excellent communication skills.
✓ Ability to motivate students to reach targets sets.
✓ Commitment to a high level of student achievement and to continuous quality improvement.
✓ Supportive, positive and non-judgemental attitude.
✓ Awareness of health and safety procedures or willingness to undertake training.
✓ Good administrative and record keeping skills.
✓ To undertake staff training as applicable and including mandatory Team Teach training.
✓ Be flexible and very responsive in approach to teaching styles and methods.
✓ Be able to respond effectively to the student’s individual needs.
✓ Ability to demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of Equality and Diversity.
✓ Ability to demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
✓ Ability to demonstrate behaviours which support the Core Values of the College.