At a Glance
- Tasks: Support visually impaired children in a primary education setting, ensuring an inclusive learning experience.
- Company: Join Staffordshire County Council, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to community and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with access to various rewards and benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience with vision loss support and a willingness to learn Braille are essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 19.5 hours per week, starting September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Based within a primary setting in the Leek area, you\’ll work within the education setting to support a high-quality, inclusive educational experience for children with vision loss.
This is a Fixed Term position for 19.5 hours per week from 1st September 2025 until 31 August 2026.
Our large centrally based Vision Inclusion Team consists of Specialist Teachers, Communication Support Workers, Mobility Officers, a VI Role Model, and an ICT Support Technician. We support children and young people aged 0-25 with a vision loss in various settings, including homes, nurseries, mainstream schools, colleges, and specialist provision. We maintain a strong commitment to multi-agency working, inclusive education, high standards of attainment, and quality of life experiences for all our pupils.
You\’ll be supporting a visually impaired/blind pupil and will be part of the Specialist Teaching Support Service.
Main Responsibilities
- Assist the Service and class teacher in implementing the pupil\’s curriculum.
- Carry out bespoke programmes of learning using the pupils\’ preferred formats (tactile learning aids, Braille, large print, or electronic files) and prepare/modify such materials in advance.
- Assist in implementing programmes of support designed by the Specialist Mobility Officer or ICT Teacher.
- Assist in maintaining and using specialist equipment (e.g., screen magnification, speech-to-text software, scanners, notetakers, Braille embossers).
- Liaise with the pupil\’s parents or guardians.
- Help the class and specialist teachers maintain written records of activities and progress, and contribute to reviews as needed.
The Ideal Candidate
- Experience supporting students with vision loss in an educational setting.
- Working knowledge of Grade 1 Braille and willingness to undertake a recognised qualification in UEB Braille and tactile learning.
- A passion for inclusion, enabling all children to flourish and grow.
- Willingness to work elsewhere as directed by the Head of Service and to travel countywide at short notice (driver\’s license and access to a car preferred).
You\’ll be supported to develop in this role by a qualified Teacher of the Vision Impaired.
For more details or an informal chat, please contact Donna McNaughton – Team Lead, Vision Inclusion Team at 01785 356830 / 0780 5826584 or donna.mcnaughton@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Closing Date: 29th June 2025
Interview Date: 4th July 2025
Employees must be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service. An online search will be completed on all shortlisted candidates as part of safer recruitment.
About Staffordshire County Council
We are no ordinary county council. Our Values: The core of who we are as an organization, shaped by colleague feedback and best practices, emphasizing community spirit, ambition, and a future-focused outlook.
Our benefits include a supportive working environment and access to rewards and benefits detailed on our careers page.
Our recruitment process is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds. We offer a guaranteed interview for applicants meeting minimum criteria, and all positions are subject to criminal record checks.
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Communication Support Worker - Vision Inclusion Team employer: Staffordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Staffordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communication Support Worker - Vision Inclusion Team
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of visually impaired students. Understanding the challenges they face and the tools available to support them will show your commitment to inclusion and make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of vision support. Engaging with others who work in similar roles can provide insights into best practices and may even lead to recommendations or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for inclusive education by volunteering or participating in relevant workshops. This hands-on experience can enhance your understanding and showcase your dedication to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions for the interview that reflect your understanding of the role and the Vision Inclusion Team's objectives. This will not only demonstrate your interest but also help you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Communication Support Worker - Vision Inclusion Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Communication Support Worker position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children with vision loss or in educational settings. Mention specific skills such as knowledge of Braille or experience with assistive technology.
Personalise Your Application: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager, if possible. Mention why you are passionate about inclusion and how your values align with those of Staffordshire County Council.
Proofread Your Documents: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffordshire County Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Communication Support Worker within the Vision Inclusion Team. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of visually impaired students and how you can support their learning effectively.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience supporting students with vision loss. Highlight any relevant skills, such as knowledge of Braille or tactile learning aids, and how you've successfully implemented these in an educational setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Inclusion
Express your commitment to inclusive education during the interview. Share examples of how you've enabled children to flourish and grow, and discuss your views on the importance of providing high-quality educational experiences for all pupils.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could include inquiries about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how the Vision Inclusion Team collaborates with other professionals to support students.