Learning Support Assistant in Wallsend

In consideration of the school’s commitment to continued improvement in teaching and learning and the dynamic nature of support required to meet the needs of all students, particularly those with additional needs, we would like to appoint a highly effective learning support assistant. Applicants will be highly motivated and have a passion to ensure that our learners achieve the very best that they can at all times. The purpose of the role will be to uphold the core standards of pride, respect and achievement with all learners and to ensure that those requiring specialist provision receive the highest standard of bespoke support.

Specifically, the successful candidates will:

• Establish productive working relationships with pupils, acting as a role model, promoting challenge and active participation in learning.
• Be committed to supporting all learners with social and emotional issues to restore participation and learning.
• Promote independence and employ strategies to recognise and reward achievement of self-reliance and collaborative work.
• Develop specialist knowledge of both the curriculum and learners’ bespoke needs to work with teaching staff and ensure maximum progress.
• Record progress and achievement in lessons and provide evidence of level of progress and attainment that can be shared with all stakeholders.
• Work within an established behaviour policy to anticipate and manage behaviour constructively, promoting self-control and independence.
• Be committed to continuous professional development and contribute knowledge and expertise in departmental and whole school training.
• Be confident to develop, monitor and contribute to learning passports ensuring effective dissemination.
• Deliver out of school learning activities within guidelines established by the school.
• Have a high level of literacy and numeracy and show confidence in support of school strategies that address underperformance.

The successful candidate will work with students on a one-to-one and small group basis providing breakout opportunities from the classroom to deepen understanding and further progress. In addition, the successful candidate will work with students who access our inclusion unit to support them with learning to aid a smooth transition back into the classroom.

Burnside College is a good school, with outstanding sixth form provision. We put teaching and learning first and are committed to providing a high quality and inclusive learning experience for all. Furthermore, we are committed to the development of staff and you will be joining a supportive school with an excellent environment in which to continue your professional development.

At Burnside College, we understand the importance of balancing a rewarding career with family and childcare commitments. Whilst we have a full-time vacancy available, we actively welcome applications from individuals seeking flexible working patterns. We are open to creative scheduling that fits around the needs of the school; for example, a working pattern to align with school drop off and pick up times. This role can be offered on a part-time contract and the salary will be pro-rata to reflect your actual agreed working pattern. If flexible hours or a specific part-time working pattern are of interest to you, please clearly outline your preferred working hours within your letter of application so we can consider how to best align them with the needs of our students.

If you would like any further information, or to discuss this role in more detail, please contact Helen Patterson, Deputy Headteacher by email.