At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with specific educational needs to help them thrive in their learning.
- Company: Highlands School, an outstanding institution known for its exceptional support for SEND students.
- Benefits: Join a passionate team, gain valuable experience, and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with excellent career prospects.
- Why this job: Be part of a community that values determination, aspiration, respect, and equality.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting students with special educational needs is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
The successful candidate will be expected to assist in the support and inclusion of students with specific educational needs within the school. Learning support assistants (LSAs) play an invaluable role in helping to meet the needs of many students with SEN and ensuring they receive their curriculum by aiding the student(s) to learn as effectively as possible both in group situations and individually, inside and outside of the classroom.
Highlands School has a strong reputation in the local community for providing excellent support for SEND students. As a result, we currently have 77 students with an EHCP; the highest number in any school in Enfield. We have a Learning Support Department, which is led by the SENCO, and supported by approximately fifteen LSAs, an SEND administration officer and an SEN teacher. The school also has a local authority funded additional resource provision (ARP) for deaf and hearing impaired students. This provision is overseen by the SENCO, with the support of a teacher of the deaf, who is supported by a team of communication workers.
Highlands is an ‘Outstanding’ school (OFSTED 2011, 2014 and 2024) at which students consistently outperform national expectations in terms of both attainment and progress. Outstanding outcomes provide our students with the opportunity to continue their studies at prestigious institutions; students at Highlands regularly receive offers from medical schools, Oxbridge and Russell Group universities. Colleagues joining Highlands are joining one of the most popular and successful schools in North London.
The work we do at Highlands is underpinned by our values: determination, aspiration, respect and equality (DARE).
Your application should be completed after reading the job description and person specification. Please use the application form to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role and why you believe you would be a strong candidate.
We are committed to attracting top talent to our school and welcome applications from all members of the community.
Communication support worker employer: Highlands School
Highlands School is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to supporting students with specific educational needs. With a strong focus on professional development and a collaborative work culture, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students. Located in North London, the school offers a vibrant community atmosphere and the opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals in an 'Outstanding' environment, ensuring both personal and career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communication support worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former LSAs at Highlands School on LinkedIn or through local community groups. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like to work there and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of SEN and the specific needs of students. Show us that you’re not just passionate but also informed about how to support these students effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get that interview, be ready to share real-life examples of how you’ve supported students in the past. We want to hear about your experiences and how they align with our values of determination, aspiration, respect, and equality.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our outstanding team at Highlands.
We think you need these skills to ace Communication support worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description and person specification. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for, so make sure you understand the role inside out!
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When filling out the application form, highlight any experience you have that relates to supporting students with specific educational needs. We love seeing real-life examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles!
Emphasise Our Values:At Highlands, our values of determination, aspiration, respect, and equality (DARE) are super important. Make sure to weave these into your application to show us you're a great fit for our school culture.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Highlands School
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Familiarise yourself with the specific educational needs (SEN) that students at Highlands School may have. Understanding the different types of support required will show your commitment and readiness to assist effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a communication support worker, your ability to convey information clearly is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with students or colleagues in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your experience working collaboratively with teachers, LSAs, and other staff members. Discuss how you can contribute to the Learning Support Department and support the SENCO in providing excellent care for students.
✨Align with School Values
Highlands School values determination, aspiration, respect, and equality. Be ready to discuss how these values resonate with you and how you’ve demonstrated them in your previous roles or experiences.
