Learning Support Assistant
- Location: Preston
- Job Type: Temporary, Full-time
- Salary: From £15 per hour
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Learning Support Assistant with a passion for education and a special affinity for working with animals, particularly horses. This role is outdoors and involves close interaction with animals, making it ideal for those who enjoy combining their love for education with animal care. The successful candidate will join our vibrant educational team, contributing to the educational journey of students and aiding them in reaching their highest potential.
Day-to-day of the role:
- Offer personalised support to individual pupils or small groups to enhance their educational and personal development, often in an outdoor setting with animals.
- Assist in the creation and organisation of educational materials and classroom settings, incorporating elements of animal care when applicable.
- Collaborate with teaching staff to track student progress and contribute to individualised learning strategies, including those involving interactions with animals.
- Promote student autonomy, self-assurance, and active participation within the learning environment, encouraging a connection with nature and animal welfare.
- Provide specialised support for students with additional educational needs, ensuring equitable learning opportunities, including those related to animal-assisted activities.
- Act as a liaison among students, educators, and parents as needed, communicating the benefits of animal interaction in education.
- Uphold the school's policies, including those related to safeguarding, confidentiality, and animal care standards.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Proven experience in an educational setting
- Experience working with animals, especially horses.
- Appropriate educational or related qualifications, with additional credentials in animal care being highly advantageous.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to engage students in learning activities involving animals.
- A patient and empathetic approach with a positive outlook on student growth and animal welfare.
- Teamwork skills, with the ability to work in harmony with teachers, school staff, and animal handlers.
- Dedication to continuous professional development, including furthering knowledge in educational and animal care practices.
Benefits:
- Representation to premier Further Education colleges and training providers in the region.
- Tailored support from a Specialist SEN Consultant for job searching, CV crafting, and interview preparation.
- Eligibility for a Health Cash Plan and discounts through the REED Discount Club.
- Statutory Sick Pay, Maternity, Paternity, and Adoption Pay, as well as Parental Leave and payment for Antenatal/Pre-Adoption Appointments.
- Opportunities for professional training and development via REED's Assessment Centre and Learning platform.
- Vouchers for eye tests and glasses.