JOB DESCRIPTION

Teaching Assistant – Functional Skills

ORGANISATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reports to: Relevant Curriculum Area Manager/Co-ordinator/Senior Tutor.

Liaises with: Learning Programmes Departmental Managers, Area Co-ordinators, Senior Tutors, Tutorial staff and widerCross-College Support Teams.

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB ROLE:

To fulfil a Teaching Assistant rolewithin the Functional Skills curriculum area inthe Learning Programmes Directorate across Vocational and Work and Future Choices sessions as required.

To contribute to the training and development of learning support cross college.

Work in specialist area on a day to day basis to develop other learning support staff deployed to the area. In order to maximise the quality and outcomes of both learning and teaching within their specialist area.

PRIMARY TASKS:

  • To work with Curriculum Area Manager/Co-ordinator to ensure the consistent delivery of high quality specialist learning support that enhances the learning process.
  • To make a significant contribution to the Training & Development of Learning Support staff at all level within their curriculum area and cross college to support development of generic learning support.
  • To provide teaching cover for absences both short-term and longer-term (the later in negotiation with Learning Programmes management team to meet the priority needs of the organisation).
  • To participate in the formal observation process for all learning support roles.
  • Develop and set up, monitor and maintain up-to-date learner support strategies within area of responsibility to facilitate individuals or groups of studentsto fully access and participate in sessions.
  • Ensure quality standards and monitoring processes are carried out fully within the curriculum area and that areas for improvement are actioned in liaison with direct line managers.
  • Role model and ensure all learning support staff assist, direct and prompt students to take personal responsibility and demonstrate autonomy.
  • Promote independent methods of working to support students to record their work in an appropriate way where they are able to do so themselves.
  • To provide assistance and demonstrate initiative in the development and preparation of differentiated teaching, learning and assessment resources under the direction of teaching staff.
  • Contribute to the recording of student progress and achievement (RARPA) and identify areas for development and feedback to the session lead. When required to take part in internal auditing of documentation processes.
  • Work effectively as part of the Learning Programmes and wider Multi-Disciplinary teams to establish and maintain a stimulating learning environment in both formal and, where relevant, life-skills sessions in an advisory capacity.
  • On occasions deliver aspects of personal care in accordance with National Star standards and individual care plans as required from within the formal learning environments.
  • Communicate effectively and work with others to monitor wider aspects of students’ requirements to ensure they are supported appropriately.
  • Maintain records and documentation accurately in accordance with National Star quality standards and legislation.
  • To fulfil requirements of the National Star’s appraisal and support and development systems, supporting effective practice.
  • To set, observe and require appropriate standards of personal behaviour and presentation.
  • To carry out any other duties as required by the Director and/or Management Team of the Learning Programmes Department.

SAFEGUARDING

National Star takes seriously its responsibility for safeguarding and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young adults and children and requires that all staff share this and act accordingly by applying organisational policy and procedure and attending annual safeguarding training.

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY

Through personal example and clear action demonstrate commitment to equality and diversity ensuring equality of access and treatment in employment and service delivery to all.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Promote the organisation’s Health and Safety at Work Policy and Procedure and ensure these are implemented effectively within the department.

Person specification – Teaching Assistant
Essential / Desirable
Previous experience / Currently working as an Education Facilitator or Teaching Assistant in an education setting
Some experience of delivering specific support to others i.e. mentoring, training or guidance roles, conducting Support & Development meetings.
Working with young people or people with disabilities and/or learning difficulties. / Experience of covering for tutorial staff absences both short and medium term.
Education/Knowledge / Qualifications in English and maths at Level 2 or equivalent and a good working knowledge of written and spoken English and functional maths.
Effective recording and reporting of information.
Willing to gain qualifications in Learning Support at Level 3 and a Teaching Award at Level 3. / A current qualification in Learning Support at Level 3 and/or a Teaching Award at Level 3.
Skills / Effective communication at all levels.
Good application of English & maths.
ICT literate – Microsoft Office, Internet, Email, Mobile Technology.
Ability to produce resources to professional standards.
Ability to work as part of a team as well asusing own initiative.
Proven ability to work flexibly and effectively with a range of professionals.
Effective team player.
Very good organisational skills.
Develops own learning. / Experience of driving mini-bus.
Experience in supporting others in using communication devices and mobility aids.
Personal Attributes / Respectful.
Good understanding of the needs or learners and stakeholders.
Sensitive and empathetic.
Passionate about the delivery of Functional Skills across a range of contexts.
Proactive and self-motivated.
Positive flexible approach.
Passionate about changing lives and supporting young people to develop skills for adulthood.
Other / Commitment to Equality & Diversity. Support the ethos of National Star & be suitable to work with vulnerable adults.
Minimum age of 18. / Current driving licence with D1 category and willingness to drive college vehicles.

Teaching Assistant (Functional Skills) – Job Description/Person Specification

March2017