Reading Assistant

Part time 8.00am-1.00pm Monday to Friday Term Time

Purpose

The Reading Assistant plays an important role at Amesbury in helping to foster a love of literacy and enjoyment of reading and supporting the academic life of the school from Year 3 to Year 8 (Prep Department).

Specific Responsibilities

•  Help to ensure progression in reading skills throughout Years 3-5 (and older pupils identified by the Head of English) through the bespoke 1:1 reading programme.
• Actively listen to specific children read, providing encouragement and productive feedback.
• Work as part of a small team of reading assistants to ensure appropriate reading provision.
• Efficiently help to manage reading materials, including books, periodicals and comprehension resources.
• Assist in accurately assessing pupil reading ability in liaison with class/English teachers to provide engaging reading material at the appropriate level.
• Work to maintain timely and targeted communication with parents through reading records.
• Help to monitor pupil progress in reading and literacy, providing feedback to class and English teachers and the Head of English.
• Be alert to specific pupil needs related to reading and promptly pass on observations to class/English teachers.
• Help to organise, promote and maintain library books and resources.
• Provide guidance to pupils and staff on reading material.
• Work to promote reading and a love of literacy through literary events, author visits and enrichment clubs.
• Ensure the library is a place where pupils can extend their creativity and imagination.
• Carry out supervisory duties at break and lunchtime, as required.

Qualifications and Skills

• A child-centred passion for literature, reading and literacy.
• Experience working with children aged 7-13 years.
• A desire to help pupils achieve their potential.
• Strong organisational, collaborative and communication skills.
• An understanding of the teaching of phonics and how to support the steps of reading.
• An understanding of SEND and the strategies/resources which enable access to learning.
• Familiarity with library management systems and technology.
• Experience running enrichment activities (e.g., book clubs) to further promote literacy.
• GCSEs in English and Maths (essential).

Person Specification

As a Reading Assistant, you will ideally:

1. Possess excellent verbal and digital communication skills to effectively represent our school to parents, staff and pupils.  

2. Demonstrate empathy, understanding and patience in interactions with pupils, parents and staff, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment.

3. Work well both independently and collaboratively, fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation among colleagues and reading assistants.

4. Adapt your approach to meet the needs of different pupils and various situations, ensuring tailored support for individual reading and literacy development.

5. Exhibit exceptional time management and organisational skills to help to maintain the library, reading programmes and associated activities efficiently.

6. Have a good knowledge of children's literature and literacy development, inspiring a passion for reading and learning among pupils.

7. Make positive and comprehensive contributions to the wider school community, participating in events, literary activities and enrichment programmes.

8. Display keen pastoral intuition, understanding the diverse needs of pupils and providing appropriate support to foster their growth and development.

9. Embrace and embody the ethos and values of the school, maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.

10. Approach your work with professionalism, enthusiasm and pride, consistently striving for excellence in your role and inspiring others through your dedication to literacy and education.

If you are passionate about fostering a love of reading and literacy and share our commitment to providing a holistic and enriching learning experience for our students, we warmly invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. An application form can be found at Careers - Amesbury School

Child Protection/Safeguarding

Amesbury is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment and undergo enhanced DBS checks.

Amesbury reserves the right to withdraw the position if an early appointment is made.

Amesbury are unable to support VISA applications.