Teaching Assistant with Sign Language Skills

Full Job Description

Position: Teaching Assistant with Sign Language Skills  

Salary Range: £ 13 - £ 14 per hour

Location: Bournemouth

Start Date: June 2024

Working Hours: Full-time (Monday – Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm), Fixed-term until the end of the next academic year  

GSL Education are actively supporting a local school in Bournemouth in the search for a dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant who has British Sign Language experience and can therefore effectively support a pupil 1:1 within the classroom.

As a 1:1 Teaching Assistant, you will play a crucial role in providing essential support for the individual pupil, by ensuring that the input of the lesson is inclusive and tailored to their specific need, so that the pupil can access the curriculum and the learning successfully alongside their peers.  

While the school is primarily mainstream, it also caters for pupils with Special Educational Needs and works hard to be an inclusive and accessible school for all its pupils. Hence, prior experience or knowledge of SEN and sign language is mandatory.

The ideal candidate for the 1:1 Sign Language Teaching Assistant role will possess relevant experience and skills, and patience to deal with children who are finding the learning and communication challenging.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Be an active member of the class, providing consistent support for the pupil and ensuring that they are able to engage and access the lessons

• The primary focus will be on providing personalised support to the pupil, reinforcing concepts and input through sign language, and assisting in their academic journey for a well-rounded and enjoyable educational experience.

• Work collaboratively with the class teacher to ensure that you are providing high-quality care for the 1:1 pupil, including creating materials to support their learning and progress.  

Skills and Attributes:

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills both in verbal and sign language.
• Empathy and patience in working with primary students with exceptional needs.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
• Patience, kindness and resilience, with a real commitment to the role
• Certification of British Sign Language Level 3 or Makaton would be really beneficial

To work with GSL Education as an Academic Support Assistant, you should:

• Have the right to work in the UK.

• Possess an up-to-date CV with two relevant references from within the last 2 years.

• Have a DBS registered to the update service or be willing to apply for one with GSL Education.

Here at GSL Education, we offer competitive pay rates, bespoke service, and dedicated Consultants who will support you in securing your new role. Whether you are at the start of your career or seeking a more manageable work-life balance, rest assured we are here for you. As experienced Education Recruiters, we have helped numerous candidates gain the relevant experience and training required to excel in roles ranging from Specialist Support Staff to Senior Leadership positions.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS on the update service.

For more information about this role, please contact Susie Beveridge at GSL Education as soon as possible. To work with GSL Education on the role, please apply via the application link or visit (url removed) to apply online.