PMLD and SLD Teaching Assistant and Mentor – Bath

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated PMLD and SLD Teaching Assistant and Mentor to join our team in Bath. As a Teaching Assistant and Mentor, you will play a vital role in providing support and guidance to students with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Your expertise in special educational needs and your passion for empowering students with complex needs will be instrumental in helping them access a meaningful education and achieve their full potential.

Responsibilities:

1. Personalised Support: Provide individualized support and assistance to students with PMLD and SLD, ensuring their physical, emotional, and educational needs are met. Adapt and differentiate teaching strategies, materials, and activities to accommodate their abilities and learning styles.
2. Inclusive Education: Collaborate with classroom teachers and other specialists to create an inclusive learning environment that fosters the participation and engagement of all students. Support students in accessing the curriculum and achieving their educational goals.
3. Personal Care: Assist with personal care tasks, including feeding, toileting, and hygiene routines, as required by individual students. Maintain a safe and supportive environment, promoting independence and self-care skills.
4. Behaviour Management: Implement behaviour management strategies and positive reinforcement techniques to support students with challenging behaviours. Foster a calm and nurturing environment that promotes positive interactions and reduces anxiety.
5. Communication and Language Support: Facilitate communication for non-verbal or limited-verbal students using augmentative and alternative communication systems, such as visual aids, signing, or assistive technology. Promote language development and social communication skills.
6. Individualised Learning Plans: Contribute to the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or Individualised Learning Plans (ILPs) for students, collaborating with teachers, therapists, and parents/carers. Monitor progress and provide regular feedback.
7. Sensory Support: Create a sensory-friendly environment by adapting the classroom layout and incorporating sensory activities and resources. Support students with sensory processing difficulties, promoting their engagement and regulation.
8. Collaboration and Teamwork: Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to student support. Participate in team meetings, sharing insights and strategies to enhance the educational experience of students.
9. Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of student progress, behaviours, and interventions. Complete administrative tasks, such as incident reports and daily logs, as required.

Requirements:

• Relevant Qualifications: Hold a relevant teaching assistant qualification or certification, such as CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools or equivalent. Additional training or experience in supporting students with PMLD and SLD is highly desirable.
• Experience: Demonstrate previous experience working with students with PMLD and SLD, preferably in a special education setting or alternative learning provision. Familiarity with sensory integration techniques, communication systems, and behaviour management strategies is advantageous.
• Empathy and Patience: Display empathy, patience, and understanding towards students with complex needs. Foster a nurturing and inclusive environment that celebrates their achievements and supports their well-being.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: Exhibit flexibility and the ability to adapt teaching approaches and strategies to meet individual student needs. Respond positively to changing circumstances and unforeseen challenges.
• Communication Skills: Possess excellent communication skills to interact effectively with students, colleagues, and parents/carers. Demonstrate the ability to build positive relationships and work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Safeguarding Awareness: Maintain a strong understanding of safeguarding protocols and procedures, ensuring the safety and well-being of students at all times.

As a PMLD and SLD Teaching Assistant and Mentor, you will have the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of students with complex needs in Bath. By providing individualized support, promoting inclusion, and facilitating their educational journey, you will empower students to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. If you are passionate about special educational needs, possess the necessary qualifications and experience, and are committed to making a difference in the lives of these remarkable students, we invite you to join our team.