Olchfa School is looking to appoint a Teaching Assistant teacher to make a significant contribution to the exciting development of a new Specialist Teaching Facility (STF) at the school. As a part of the wide-ranging review of STF provision across the Local Authority, Olchfa is introducing an STF for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). The needs of those pupils might be defined as below:
Pupils with severe learning difficulties have significant intellectual or cognitive impairments. This has a major effect on their ability to participate in the school curriculum without support. They may also have associated difficulties in mobility and co-ordination, communication and perception and acquisition of self-help skills. Pupils with SLD will need support in all areas of the curriculum. They may also require teaching of self-help, independence and social skills. Some pupils may use sign and symbols, but most will be able to hold simple conversations and gain some literacy skills.
The STF will roll out over the next few years. It is envisaged that, by the time of the completion of the roll-out, the STF will meet the needs of 18 young people aged between 11 and 16. Those young people will be supported by two full time specialist teachers and two full time specialist Teaching Assistants, housed in a dedicated suite of facilities. The successful candidate will be passionate about ensuring that its learners are included fully in the life of the school, whilst also receiving the specialist and bespoke support they need. The successful candidate, working alongside a specialist STF Teacher, will support the development of bespoke learning plans for each pupil. The role will often be based within the STF facility, supporting pupils with their learning, but may also include attending mainstream lessons with pupils to promote their inclusion and independence.
This is a challenging but rewarding role, where the post holder will need to show compassion and kindness, within a culture of high expectations and promotion of inclusion. Working with pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties may include the need to support intimate care and manual handling needs. A package of ongoing training and professional development will be available through Local Authority courses and liaison with other specialist providers in the city.
In return, you can expect:
Term time only employment (which means no school holiday working)
Monday to Friday only (8.30am - 3.30pm daily)
Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
Free on-site parking
Subsidised use of our Calon Fitness Suite
Subsidised Private Health Care
If you like the sound of this, then we would like to hear from you.
Within Swansea Council, there is a "Safeguarding is Everybody's Business" principle, and this applies to all Swansea Council employees, elected members, volunteers and contractors. Further details can be found at https://www.swansea.gov.uk/corporatesafeguarding
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
The Authority and Olchfa School, in line with the Corporate Safeguarding Policy, are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Authority expects all staff to undertake and keep up to date with mandatory safeguarding training for the both the protection of children and adults. The successful applicant will be asked to apply for an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.