Pupil Support Assistant - Senior School in Edinburgh

George Watson’s College wishes to appoint a Pupil Support Assistant in our Additional Support for Learning Department within our Senior School. The role involves providing personalised and holistic 1-1 and/or small group assistance to pupils with a range of physical, emotional, social, behavioural or learning additional needs to enable them to have a rich and fulfilling educational experience at the School.

The postholder will work closely with teaching staff and support staff to provide classroom-based support, promote positive engagement in learning, and contribute to an inclusive learning environment. In addition to classroom support, the postholder will play a key role within the school's nurture provision, supporting neurodivergent young people and other pupils who may experience periods of emotional dysregulation, anxiety, or overwhelm.

Main Responsibilities:

• Provide support to pupils during lessons across a range of curriculum areas.
• Assist pupils to engage with learning activities and follow teacher instructions.
• Support the delivery of differentiated learning tasks to meet individual needs.
• Encourage independence, confidence, and resilience in learning.
• Reinforce positive behaviour and support the school's values and expectations.
• Work collaboratively with teachers to monitor pupil progress and engagement.
• Support pupils with additional support needs to access the curriculum effectively.
• Assist in the preparation and organisation of learning resources where required.
• Support pupils in the effective use of assistive technology and digital tools to enhance access to learning.

Nurture Provision Support:

• Provide support within the school's nurture provision for pupils who require time away from class to regulate and reset.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with young people.
• Support neurodivergent pupils and others experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, sensory overload, or overwhelm.
• Use a calm, nurturing, and trauma-informed approach to help pupils identify and manage their emotions.
• Facilitate restorative conversations and reflective planning with pupils.
• Support pupils to develop strategies that enable a successful return to class and learning.
• Facilitate and support small-group nurture activities designed to enhance pupils' emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, and social skills.
• Work with pastoral staff, support for learning staff, and families where appropriate to promote positive outcomes.
• Maintain appropriate records of pupil support and interventions as required.

Examination and Assessment Support:

• Support the delivery of internal and external exams in accordance with school and Qualification Scotland regulations.
• Act as a reader and/or scribe for pupils who require this assessment arrangement.
• Support pupils who use assistive technology during exams and assessments.
• Prepare exam rooms and equipment for pupils requiring assessment arrangements.
• Set up, test, and troubleshoot laptops, tablets, specialist software, and other assistive technology used during exams.
• Promote pupils' confidence and independence when using exam support arrangements.

General Responsibilities:

• Promote inclusion, wellbeing, and positive relationships throughout the school.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.
• Contribute to meetings, reviews, and professional learning opportunities as required.
• Work effectively as part of a team supporting young people.
• Follow school policies and procedures relating to safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, and equality.

Ideal Candidate:

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Experience of supporting young people with social, emotional, or behavioural needs.
• Ability to establish positive and supportive relationships with young people.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Understanding of inclusive practice and supporting diverse learning needs.
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in challenging situations.
• Commitment to promoting the wellbeing and achievement of all learners.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience of working in a secondary school setting.
• Knowledge and understanding of neurodiversity, including autism and ADHD.
• Experience of nurture, trauma-informed, restorative, or relationship-based approaches.
• Relevant qualifications in education, youth work, childcare, or support work.

Personal Qualities:

• Patient, empathetic, and approachable.
• Positive and resilient.
• Flexible and adaptable in response to pupil needs.
• Committed to inclusion and equity.
• Skilled at building trusting relationships with young people.
• Able to balance nurture and support with high expectations for engagement and achievement.

Package Description:

Location: George Watson’s College, Edinburgh
Contract Type: Permanent, 27 hours per week (worked Monday – Thursday), 44 weeks per year
Salary: £27,090- £30,231 (based on 36.25 hours and 52 weeks) which equates to £17,073 – £19,052 (for 27 hours and 44 weeks).
Benefits: Competitive salary, reduced school fees at George Watson’s College for children of staff, Membership of the Galleon Club (the school’s fitness club).