Learning Support Mentor at Rise Education

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About this Role

Job Purpose

The Learning Support Mentor will work with students who have additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The role involves providing in class support, tailored academic assistance, facilitating social and emotional development, and fostering an inclusive learning environment. You will work closely with teachers and other professionals to ensure students with additional needs receive the appropriate support to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Responsibilities

1. Student Support:
   • Provide one-on-one or small group support to students in class.
   • Adapt and deliver learning activities to meet the individual needs of students.
   • Implement tailored strategies to support students in the classroom, focusing on improving focus, social skills, and emotional regulation.
   • Monitor and track student progress, providing feedback to teachers and the SENCo.
   • Encourage positive behaviour and engagement through effective management strategies.
   • Support students in managing transitions, both within the classroom and in the school environment.
   • Promote social inclusion by supporting students during group activities, play, and peer interactions.
2. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Work closely with teachers, SENCo, and other staff to develop and implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students.
   • Maintain regular communication with parents and carers, providing updates on student progress and discussing strategies for support at home.
   • Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to the development of whole-school strategies for supporting students with additional needs.
   • Work alongside external agencies (e.g., Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists) to implement specific interventions for students.
3. Personal Development and Training:
   • Participate in relevant professional development and training to enhance skills in supporting students with ASD, ADHD, and SEMH.
   • Stay informed on best practices and new strategies for supporting students with additional needs.
   • Contribute to school-wide initiatives aimed at promoting an inclusive learning environment.
4. Administrative Tasks:
   • Maintain accurate records of student support, progress, and any incidents of concern.
   • Complete any required reports or assessments for students with additional needs.
   • Assist in preparing resources and learning materials tailored to the needs of students with additional needs.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Experience:

• Experience working with children or young people with additional needs, particularly ASD, ADHD, and SEMH.
• A relevant qualification in special educational needs, education, or a related field is desirable (e.g., Teaching Assistant Level 3, Special Education Needs qualification).
• Training in behaviour management techniques, safeguarding, or other relevant areas is desirable.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to adapt teaching and support methods to meet the individual needs of students.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Patience, empathy, and a calm demeanor when working with students who have complex needs.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to try new strategies to support student learning and wellbeing.

Personal Attributes:

• A compassionate and empathetic nature with the ability to work with students who may have challenging behaviors.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to respond to the changing needs of students.
• A commitment to promoting inclusivity and equality for all students.
• A team player who works collaboratively and shares knowledge with others.
• Strong commitment to personal and professional development.

Other Requirements:

• A clear understanding of child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• The ability to maintain confidentiality and act with professionalism at all times.
• A willingness to engage in relevant training and continuous professional development.