Learning Support Assistant - LSA

Job description / Role

• Support for pupil
• Supervise and facilitate individual support for the named pupil, with particular reference to IEP targets, ensuring their safety and access to learning activities, including, where appropriate, specialist lessons.
• Supervise the named pupil in small group or one to one learning activities in school in or away from the main teaching area if group work is in the named pupil's interests
• Communicate effectively and sensitively with the named pupil to support their learning, promoting self- confidence and independence
• Assist pupils to develop skills both within the accessible curriculum and on the IEP on a one to one or group setting.
• Working with the named pupil recognizing when it is necessary to make adjustments to planned activities in order to enable a pupil to access the curriculum and/or IEP fully and make progress.
• Encourage the named pupil to interact with others and engage in activities led by the teacher.
• Promote pupil's self-esteem, independence, academic, physical and social inclusion and acceptance.
• Support use of ICT in learning activities and develop pupil's competence and independence in its use
• Supervise the named pupils at play/leisure breaks, as agreed with the class teacher, at times of transition between lessons and activities, and on arrival to class and before departure.
• Provide informal feedback to the named pupil in relation to progress and achievement under the guidance of the teacher.
• Have realistically high expectations of the named pupil; respect their social, cultural, linguistic, religious and ethnic backgrounds; and be committed to raising their educational achievements.
• Use behaviour management strategies, in line with the school's policy and procedures.
• Attend swimming lessons, either to be on the side of the pool or to enter the water, as required by the Head of Inclusion and the Head of PE.
• If the LSA pupil is absent report to the Head of Inclusion.
• Support for the Teacher.
• Contribute effectively to the lessons and assist in setting out learning materials appropriate to planned activity for the named pupil.
• Work within a framework set by the assigned teacher, to plan the LSA's role in lessons including how they will provide feedback to the named pupil and colleagues on pupils' learning and behavior.
• Monitor pupils' participation and progress, providing feedback to the teacher, and giving constructive support to the named pupil as they learn. Annotate work re description of support given.
• Record achievement/progress of the named pupil as directed by teacher and Head of Inclusion.
• Share with the teacher, colleagues and supporting professionals, issues of concern and positive feedback about the pupil's welfare and achievements.
• Administer routine tests and invigilate exams and undertake routine marking of pupil's work as directed by the teacher.
• Accompany named pupil on educational visits and take responsibility for the named pupil under the supervision of the teacher.
• Communicate effectively with the named pupil's parent/s via the LSA communication diary and monthly reports based on IEP targets and outcomes.
• Maintain a file of IEPs, records, minutes and other relevant documents.
• Support for the curriculum.
• Undertake structured and agreed learning activities, adjusting activities according to named pupil's responses.
• Understand and refer to learning objectives with reference to the named pupil within the appropriate framework eg Development Matters, Early Learning Goals, National Curriculum or P levels.
• Attend relevant meetings required, including with Head of Inclusion, termly Individual Education Plan meetings and CPD
• Support for the school
• Ensure the identity of the named pupil and all issues with regard to their needs are confidential.

Requirements

• Be aware of and support differences and ensure all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and develop
• Meet with the assigned classroom teacher(s), colleagues and Head of Inclusion within employed hours to discuss issues relevant to the area in order to improve practice and ensure adequate resource allocation.
• To take part in training activities offered by the school to further knowledge (within employed hours)
• Take part in agreed induction programme for new Teaching Assistants in accordance with school's policy
• Attendance at meetings of the team of Teaching Assistants to discuss issues arising from day-to-day support in the classroom, and identify improvements to the service provided
• Contribute to the overall ethos/work/aims of the school
• Set a good example in terms of dress, punctuality and attendance
• Works in collaboration with other teaching assistants, support staff, administration. Appreciate and support their role.

About the Company

GEMS Education is a pioneering education company with an international network of award winning K-12 schools. Over the past 55 years GEMS has grown from one school to being a truly global company with one incredible mission – to make quality education available to every student. Over 20,000 education professionals unlock the potential of over 250,000 students across 14 countries each and every day, preparing children of all ages for real world success.