At a Glance
- Tasks: Support autistic students in higher education with tailored 1:1 mentoring sessions.
- Company: Join the National Autistic Society, a leading charity dedicated to supporting autistic individuals.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, paid support time, and opportunities for training and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and motivated team.
- Qualifications: Must be a university graduate with experience working with autistic individuals.
- Other info: Open to all qualified applicants, especially those with autism.
The National Autistic Society offers a student support service across Scotland for autistic individuals in higher education, providing support to enable them to achieve their academic potential. The NAS Student Support service is tailored to the individual needs of students, providing the support they need to help them through college or university.
Specialist Mentors provide 1:1 support, advice and guidance to students during regular (usually weekly) sessions. Most students encounter challenges when entering a new academic and social environment and our Specialist Mentors offer support in various areas including:
- managing change
- disability awareness
- emotion management
- relationships and boundaries
- timetabling and structure
- presentation skills and group work
- independent learning skills
Specialist Mentors provide individualised support to students in higher education and will therefore need to be confident, motivated and resourceful. The successful candidate will be a university graduate with first-hand knowledge of the higher education environment, and experience of working with autistic individuals. We are looking for an excellent communicator who is able to prioritise their work to meet the needs of their students.
As a Specialist Mentor you will be responsible for supporting students at higher educational institutions in Glasgow. Ordinarily student support sessions are delivered in person at the student’s university or college, but in some cases we provide support online. You will be joining the Student Support team, which is well established, highly motivated, and completely committed to the outcomes we facilitate for our students.
This is a bank agreement with no fixed hours. You will be paid for your support hours and allocated administrative time as well as any additional hours for training, supervisions, meetings etc.
Applications for this job are sought from anyone who is suitably qualified and experienced for the role but particularly welcome from those with a diagnosis of autism. The NAS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and as such expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks. We are an equal opportunities employer.
Student Specialist Mentor - Glasgow employer: The National Autistic Society
Contact Detail:
The National Autistic Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Specialist Mentor - Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by autistic students in higher education. Understanding their unique needs will help you demonstrate your empathy and ability to provide tailored support during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of autism support and higher education. Attend relevant workshops or seminars in Glasgow to connect with others who share your passion, as this can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your personal experiences and how they relate to the role. If you have experience working with autistic individuals or in educational settings, be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and understanding.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the National Autistic Society's values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs during the interview will show your genuine interest in the role and commitment to supporting autistic students.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Specialist Mentor - Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Specialist Mentor. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the needs of autistic students in higher education.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any experience you have working with autistic individuals or in educational settings. Provide specific examples of how you've supported others in overcoming challenges similar to those faced by students.
Showcase Communication Skills: As an excellent communicator is essential for this role, make sure to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and consider including examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles.
Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that reflects your motivation for applying. Discuss your understanding of the challenges faced by autistic students and your commitment to supporting their academic success. This is your chance to show your passion for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Autistic Society
✨Show Your Understanding of Autism
Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of autism during the interview. Share any personal experiences or insights you have that relate to supporting autistic individuals, as this will show your genuine commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
As an excellent communicator, it's crucial to showcase your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with students or colleagues in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Discuss Your Experience in Higher Education
Since the role requires first-hand knowledge of the higher education environment, be ready to discuss your own experiences as a university graduate. Talk about how these experiences have shaped your understanding of the challenges students face.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to support students. Think of specific situations where you had to manage change or help someone navigate their academic journey, and be prepared to explain your approach.