At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with vision impairment in schools, creating accessible learning materials and providing classroom assistance.
- Company: Join the Vision Impairment Team within Hertfordshire's Children's Services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, and a supportive management team.
- Other info: Flexible hours, term-time only, with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience supporting children in learning, strong literacy and numeracy skills, and a willingness to learn Braille.
The predicted salary is between 21882 - 24071 £ per year.
Starting Salary: £25,583 progressing to £28,142 pa pro rata (Actual approx. £21,882 progressing to £24,071 pa - pro rata for part time)
Hours: 30 or 37 hours, Term Time Only (39 weeks)
Location: Apsley - with travel countywide
Contract Type: Permanent
Directorate: Childrens Services
We are actively recruiting for 2 Access Specialists within the Vision Impairment Team. This is an exciting opportunity to join the Vision Impairment Team to support schools with modification of curriculum resources and activities for children and young people who will access their literacy through Braille/tactile diagrams alongside specialist technology plus supporting in the classroom.
You will work across Hertfordshire under the guidance of the Lead Access Specialists Qualified Teachers of Vision Impairment (QTVI). You will work with children and young people with vision impairment within schools or early years settings, providing direct classroom support, preparing teaching and learning materials and modelling best practice. You will help Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CYPVI) develop their Braille and specialist ICT skills.
Key responsibilities:
- Produce resources in line with the National Curriculum in an accessible format for individual children and young people with vision impairment, Braille, audio, concrete materials and 3D models.
- Mentor and train school-based staff responsible for meeting the needs of the CYPVI in modification of learning materials/experiences and the production of specialist resources.
- Support the training of staff and pupils in the use of specialist equipment.
- Work directly with CYPVI to support the development of their Braille skills and deliver specialist programmes devised by QTVI.
- Contribute to the planning, monitoring, and recording of pupil progress.
- Liaise with school staff and other professionals within educational settings regarding learning materials for the child or young person with vision impairment.
- Undertake mandatory HCC and relevant specialist in-service training. Maintain awareness of current thinking and relevant developments, in order to improve and further develop service delivery.
About You
Essential requirements for this role:
- Experience of successfully supporting children or young people in a learning situation.
- A willingness to undertake further training to learn Braille, and to pass the RNIB Certificate in Contracted Braille (UEB) course and exam. In addition to this, you will be required to undertake the VIEW Partners in Learning – Advanced Certificate required for education support staff working with Vision Impaired students. You will have two years to successfully complete both courses.
- GCSE or Vocational equivalent - strong numeracy and literacy.
- Good ICT skills.
- Well-organised and able to meet deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and contribute as part of the wider team within the service.
- Committed to safeguarding, inclusion and continued professional development.
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Desirable:
- A working knowledge of Braille.
- Experience of working with a child or young person with a vision impairment.
This role offers an exceptional opportunity to develop a wide range of new skills while working across Hertfordshire as part of the Vision Impairment Team. You will play a meaningful part in supporting children and young people with vision impairment, helping them access learning and empowering them to reach their fullest potential.
In return, you will benefit from a supportive management team, ongoing professional development, and a comprehensive range of competitive employee benefits.
To hear more about this opportunity please contact Jeanie.Eales@hertfordshire.gov.uk and julie.budden@hertfordshire.gov.uk for an informal discussion about the role.
Interview date: Wednesday 29th April 2026 and Wednesday 6th May 2026
This job role is within the Community Services level 6 job profile.
Benefits and Additional Information:
- Disability Confident: We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
- Safeguarding: This role has been identified as requiring a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.
- Driving required: You’ll need to have the ability to drive and/or travel around Hertfordshire, either using your own mode of transport or a company car to travel to other locations.
- English Fluency: The ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
Access Specialist employer: Hertfordshire County Council
As an Access Specialist within the Vision Impairment Team, you will join a dedicated and supportive environment focused on empowering children and young people with vision impairments across Hertfordshire. The company offers excellent professional development opportunities, a commitment to inclusion, and a comprehensive benefits package, all while fostering a collaborative work culture that values your contributions to meaningful educational outcomes.
Contact Details:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Access Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those working with vision impairment. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the Vision Impairment Team and their approach. Show us you’re passionate about supporting children with vision impairment and have some ideas on how to make learning accessible.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions. Think about your experiences supporting children in learning situations and how you can relate them to the role of an Access Specialist.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Access Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Access Specialist. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on experiences that relate directly to supporting children or young people, especially those with vision impairments. We want to see how you've made a difference in similar situations!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Access Specialist and the specific needs of children with vision impairment. Familiarise yourself with Braille, specialist technology, and how to modify curriculum resources. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children or young people in a learning environment. Highlight any relevant training or skills, especially if you have experience working with vision-impaired students. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the Vision Impairment Team, their current projects, or how they support staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. The team is looking for someone who can connect with children and staff alike, so being authentic will help you stand out. Plus, it’ll make you feel more comfortable during the interview!
