Learning Mentor Full Time

Evesham, Worcestershire
WCG
Salary range: £18,193 – £20,225 pro rata, per annum

£9,494.01 – £10,554.41 salary estimation based on 24 hours per week, 36 weeks of the year

Background to the Post

Warwickshire College has three core values, the first of which is to put the student first. The role of the Learning Mentor is to ensure that all our students with SEND reach their potential.

The main purpose of this post is to support students within their learning programmes and help them towards achieving independence. Young people have the right to request that an institution is named in their EHC plan, and local authorities have a duty to name that institution in the EHC plan unless, following consultation with the institution, the local authority determines that it is unsuitable for the young person’s age, ability, aptitude or SEN, or that to place the young person there would be incompatible with the efficient use of resources or the efficient education of others. The majority of time will be spent with identified students in the classroom/workshop/practical at level 1 and on a mentoring basis with students at higher levels of study where the student has an EHCP. There will be a requirement to undertake administrative tasks relating to recording student progress and supporting student retention and achievement.

Duties and Responsibilities

* To provide support in-class, or mentoring support outside the classroom as directed by the SEN Team Leader.

* To assist the class lecturer with the preparation of materials or activities for named student use.

* To actively promote and support independent learning

* To be a key worker for a designated number of students who have EHCPs and support the SEN Team Leader in the annual review process.

* To work closely with the personal tutor/Personal Learning Adviser to ensure that individual student targets are being monitored and reviewed.

* In conjunction with the personal tutor/Personal Learning Adviser, maintain a system to record named student progress.

* With knowledge/permission of personal tutor/Personal Learning Adviser, make contact with parents, either by telephone or in writing where appropriate.

* To act as a trouble-shooter and work with the students to ensure they meet deadlines and catch-up on any missed work.

* To attend Academy and Inclusion team meetings.

* To undertake training and development as required.

* To accompany and support students during work experience placements, and/or trips, residential both on and off site if appropriate.

* To undertake administrative duties which will include keeping own record book, completing cause for concern forms, updating tutors with student progress report and completing regular student support/progress reviews.

* Work collaboratively with College staff to produce Individual Risk Assessment, Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans and Medical Protocols.

* Contribute to student reports if required.

Health and Safety

To ensure a safe working environment for colleagues, students, and visitors in line with the HASAW Act and the College Health and Safety Policy.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults for whom you are responsible and whom you come into contact with.

The list of duties is not exhaustive but outlines the main features of the post at appointment and may vary as the job evolves without affecting the nature of the duties or the responsibility level.

Working Weeks

This post is normally for 36 working weeks per year but this may be less if the post holder starts after the beginning of the academic year. Salary will be paid in equal monthly amounts across the academic year.

Hours of Work

The post holder will be expected to work such hours as are necessary for the proper performance of their duties and responsibilities, normally 24 hours per week.

Place of work

The principal place of work will be the College’s premises based at our Evesham/Pershore Centre. However, the post holder may be required to work on either a temporary or an indefinite basis at any premises at which we may provide services.

Protection of Children and Young Persons

Any offers of appointment will be conditional and subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, a certificate of good conduct if applicable, plus receipt of satisfactory employment references, Occupational Health clearance, an understanding of safeguarding and qualifications verification. An Enhanced DBS check is required for this position as you will be working within ‘Regulated Activity’ within a specific place (ie the College).

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Ability to perform the tasks as described in the job description. If you have a disability you should not be discouraged from applying, since there are schemes available within the College which allow for the provision of special aids, premises to be adapted and other appropriate support provided. Ways in which these schemes might help in particular circumstances can be discussed with HR when making your application.

Essential Attainments:

* GCSE Grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or Level 2 equivalent qualification.

* Working knowledge of information technology such as e-mail, the internet and other software applications.

* Excellent administrative and organisational skills.

* Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

* Previous experience of supporting young people with a learning difficulty and/or disability.

* An understanding of the SEND reforms and the Educational Health and Care Plan.

* A willingness to undertake and successfully complete a 10 credit equivalent course related to SpLD internally within the first year of service.

* Previous experience of working in Further Education and managing students with behaviours for concern.

Essential Skills and Knowledge:

* The ability to effectively manage students with challenging behaviours and motivate students to reach targets sets.

* Excellent communication skills and Supportive, positive and non-judgemental attitude.

* Commitment to a high level of student achievement and to continuous quality improvement.

* Awareness of health and safety procedures or willingness to undertake training.

* Be flexible and very responsive in approach to teaching styles and methods.

* Be able to respond effectively to the student’s individual needs and work to deadlines set.

* Commitment to equality and diversity and knowledge of Disability Discrimination and Equality Act