Primary Learning Support Teacher/Coordinator

The Learning Support (LS) Coordinator is responsible to the Primary Principal for the management of teaching, learning and resources in his/her team. The Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that their team reflects best practice and is in harmony with the educational philosophy of the school.

The Learning Support Coordinator in the Primary School needs to demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining a collaborative culture within the school. In addition, he/she needs to embody an understanding of the social and emotional dimensions of learning as evidenced through their practice. 

Responsibilities

Administrative Tasks:

Initiating and overseeing the development of appropriate supports,  interventions and Individual Learning Plans by the LS Team.

Working with teachers, other Primary Coordinators, the Primary Principal, and Deputy Primary Principal in maintaining a whole school philosophy for LS.

Ensuring that systems and structures for learning support in the school are clear and consistently followed.

Facilitating a strong understanding of the inclusive LS model at ICS, including processes of transition and programmes of support, with classroom teachers, and the Primary Leadership Team.

Supporting the placement and transition of students as well as communicating with Principal, Deputy Principal and Coordinators regarding class lists.

Modelling best practice in co-teaching and a highly collaborative approach to team-planning (within and beyond the LS team).

Advocating for students who are involved in the LS programme.

Scheduling and leading departmental meetings.

Supporting the development and maintenance of a learner-centred approach through the co-teaching model.

Working with the Primary Leadership Team, Secondary Learning Support Coordinator and Grade 6 PDP Coordinator on the transition between Primary and Secondary, including facilitating assessments as needed.

Mentoring teachers and Teaching Assistants in their professional development.

Supporting teachers in communications with parents and students.

Coordinating/attending parent workshops as needed.

Planning and overseeing the LS budget.

Coordinating and communicating with parents, counsellors and the Primary Principal about relevant assessment for the admissions process, including requests for additional assessment or information. 

Liaising with external professionals as needed to help develop a differentiated programme for students and to support teachers with understanding how best to meet the needs of LS students.

Maintaining an up-to-date LS Register and ensuring there is regular communication with teachers regarding the needs of students.

Engaging actively in Student Pastoral Oversight Team meetings if required.

Facilitate the running of the Student Support Team meetings if required

Working closely with the counselling and EAL teams.

Provide leadership to the primary school in all matters related to LS.

Classroom Tasks

Provide LS support within the LS timetable to students from PreK to Grade 5.

Identify students needing LS support on entry and conduct individual assessments.

Plan and prepare the relevant educational classroom, indoor and outdoor activities.

Develop engaging experiences which motivate students to learn.

Support students to become independent, cooperative and collaborative learners.

Organise learning activities to provide an appropriate degree of challenge for each student.

Support students’ access to learning through the effective use of integrated co-teaching.

Provide pastoral care and support to students and provide them with a secure learning environment during all activities both inside and outside the school.

Research, develop, purchase and adapt learning materials and make imaginative use of resources.

Assist with the development of students’ personal/social/ and language abilities.

Monitor, assess and record each student’s progress and set targets.

Celebrate the cultural diversity of the school population and explore possible links with home countries and home languages through the internet and other activities.

Set appropriate assessments for formative and summative purposes.

Create and maintain an orderly, safe, stimulating and informative learning environment.

Maintain a positive approach supporting the school’s policies and general ethos.

Other Tasks

Liaise within the LS Team to ensure that programme requirements are met.

Inform Homeroom Teachers about issues of any concerns related to student welfare, achievement and behaviour.

Contribute to the planning and delivery of the Primary Curriculum.

Assist with the administration of external testing.

Keep parents informed about students’ progress and the targets for learning.

Attend Parent/Teacher and Student-led conferences.

Attend meetings for planning and administration.

Attend in-service training and professional development workshops.

Assist with substitution if required.  

Remain up to date with current research and best practice within an international setting. 

Requirements

Current classroom teacher qualification.

BA/BSc/BEd or equivalent university degree.

Fluent English speaker.

Previous leadership experience.

Experience in an international school environment is advantageous.

Experience in teaching Learning Support, additional qualifications desired

PYP knowledge preferred.

Experience in teaching learners with diverse needs.

Strong classroom management skills.

Strong organisational skills.

IT competence.

The applicant must demonstrate knowledge of the developmental needs of children of 5-11 years.

Empathy and social skills.

Documented record of excellence in teaching.

A record of collaboration, teamwork and active participation in school life.

Terms and conditions

The initial contract is for two years and is renewable. The generous salary and range of benefits will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate, with the overall package reflecting the importance of the position.

Next steps

Interested candidates should email a full letter of application, a statement of personal educational philosophy, detailed resume/curriculum vitae, and three referees. The Head of School reserves the right to apply directly to the writers of open testimonials for confidential statements.

Applications should be sent to:

Ms Mary-Lyn Campbell,

Head of School

We are looking forward to receive your online application.