Specialist Learning Mentor (ASC) - HD11384

This role is based in the UK and will be working on site in our UK based College.

In order to comply with our mandatory pre-employment checks, the successful candidate will be required to provide original identification documents in person to our UK based HR Team.

BACKGROUND TO THE POST

WCG has three core values, the first of which is to put the student first. Young people have the right to request that an institution is named in their Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP), and local authorities have a duty to name that institution in the EHC plan unless, following consultation with the institution, the local authority determines that it is unsuitable for the young person’s age, ability, aptitude or Special Educational Needs or that to place the young person there would be incompatible with the efficient use of resources or the efficient education of others.

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 act as a trouble-shooter and work with the student to ensure they meet deadlines and catch-up on any missed work

✓ To attend Academy and Inclusion Team meetings.

✓ To undertake training and development as required including Team Teach.

✓ To train and act as invigilator and/ or Human Support (Reader, Scribe, Prompt) in exams.

✓ 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.

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.

✓ Work to deadlines set.

✓ 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.

For a full job description, please see attached below.