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- Tasks: Support children with vision impairment in their learning and development.
- Company: Join the Department of Children's Services, dedicated to enhancing children's lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; a passion for helping others is key.
- Other info: Training provided for skills like Braille; potential relocation to other provisions.
The predicted salary is between 13968 - 15700 £ per year.
Department of Children’s Services
Children’s Sensory and Physical Needs Service
Vision Impaired Specialist Support Assistant
1 x 26 hrs per week (4 days) – TTO + 5 Days / 39 weeks
Band 5/6: £23,114 pa – £25,979 pa FTE (Pro rata for Part Time Posts)
Actual salary approx. £13,968 – £15,700 pa
Permanent
Based at VI LARP, Hanson Academy
We are looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated colleague to join our team of professionals to work with children with vision impairment at Hanson Academy, in the Local Authority Resourced provision (LARP). As a Vision Impairment Specialist Support Assistant, you will have the rewarding experience of supporting pupils to access learning across their distinctive areas of need. This will include supporting transition and developing the skills and experiences they need as part of their pathway to adulthood.
We are looking for a colleague that has a solution focused approach to meeting the needs of the children and young people. Those needs can also include cognition and learning, social communication, medical and physical needs and social, emotional and mental health needs.
Through a detailed induction programme and experience day to day in the role you will develop a depth of knowledge about the Children and Young People (C/YP) and we encourage innovative approaches to meeting their needs. We are expanding the use of assistive technology to facilitate learning and independence in the C/YP and it is essential that the successful candidate has an aptitude and confidence in using ICT such as an iPad and various apps.
The C/YP who access the resourced provision have a range of complex needs including medical needs. You will need to demonstrate that you can independently administer medication, following training from health professionals, support with personal hygiene needs, be able to engage in Manual Handling training, respond to medical needs appropriately and access First Aiders or training where required and other similar duties independently.
Pupils with a vision impairment benefit from physical activities in the curriculum. You will need to be able to independently support pupils in active lessons such as dance, drama, and sport. Similarly, the Academy curriculum offers pupils lessons in creative technologies. As such you will independently support pupils in lessons such as resistant materials, textiles, and food technology where the pupils’ use of machinery and devices will be supervised by you.
You will need to demonstrate that you have the ability to be mindful of and can act independently to ensure the health and safety of pupils in a range of contexts described but not limited to those above.
Braille continues to be a clear means of communication for vision impaired C/YP. Experience of Braille is desirable, also training can be accessed to develop skills as needed.
Please be aware that you will be employed by Bradford Council’s Children’s Sensory and Physical Needs Service and not the school. Although you will be based at Hanson Academy, you can be moved to alternative provisions if required.
VI Specialist Support Assistant employer: Bradford Council
Contact Detail:
Bradford Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land VI Specialist Support Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with vision impairment. Research common challenges they face and how to support their learning effectively. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commitment and understanding during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have with assistive technology, especially tools like iPads or apps that aid learning. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these technologies in past roles or how you plan to implement them in this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and other professionals. Think of examples where teamwork has led to positive outcomes for students, as this role will require close cooperation with various stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to supporting children's emotional and social needs. Consider strategies you've used in the past to foster independence and resilience in young people, as these skills are crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace VI Specialist Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Vision Impairment Specialist Support Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with special educational needs or disabilities. Mention any specific skills related to vision impairment, such as familiarity with assistive technology or Braille.
Showcase Your Approach: Demonstrate your solution-focused approach in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully supported diverse needs in past roles, and how you plan to apply this in the context of supporting children with vision impairment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a role that involves supporting children's learning.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bradford Council
✨Show Your Passion for Supporting Children
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with vision impairments. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to helping young people thrive.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've approached challenges in the past, particularly in educational settings. Discuss your solution-focused approach and how you adapt to meet diverse needs, showcasing your ability to think on your feet.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Assistive Technology
Since the role involves using assistive technology, it’s a good idea to research tools like iPads and relevant apps. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these technologies into your support strategies for pupils.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork and Communication Skills
This position requires collaboration with teachers and other staff members. Prepare to talk about your experience working in teams, how you communicate effectively, and how you ensure that everyone is on the same page when supporting students.
