Are you passionate about supporting learners with additional needs to thrive, achieve and grow in confidence?
At Barking & Dagenham College, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a committed and compassionate Specialist Learning Support professional to join our Additional Learning Support (ALS) team and make a meaningful difference to the lives of students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
About Us
Barking & Dagenham College of Further & Higher Education is a vibrant and inclusive environment committed to the success of our learners, colleagues and community. Established in 1961, our college spans four campuses across the Borough of Barking & Dagenham, supporting thousands of learners on their journey towards independence, employment and further study.
Our Additional Learning Support provision plays a vital role in ensuring that learners with additional needs are fully supported to access education, develop life skills and achieve their ambitions.
The Role
Reporting to the ALS Coordinator, you will work under the supervision and guidance of lecturers and coordinators to provide high-quality, individualised support for students with learning difficulties, disabilities and complex needs.
You will primarily support learners within foundation learning programmes, delivering both one-to-one and in-class support to ensure students can fully access their curriculum.
You'll Be Responsible For
Providing tailored one-to-one and small group support for learners with complex needs
Reinforcing learning through clarification, explanation, note-taking, prompting and breaking down tasks
Supporting independent learning and assisting students in recording their work appropriately
Using appropriate communication strategies to facilitate access to learning and two-way communication
Liaising with tutors, peer groups and support teams to ensure successful integration
Supporting students with SEMH needs in collaboration with Student Achievement Mentors and Behaviour Specialists
Assisting with formal assessments (e.g. reading, scribing, invigilation)
Maintaining accurate records on the College's Etracker system and contributing to EHCP annual reviews
Administering medication and supporting medical/therapeutic needs where required, in line with EHCPs
Providing personal care, where required, ensuring privacy, dignity and independence
Promoting safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusive practice in all aspects of your work
What We're Looking For
We're seeking a proactive and empathetic individual who is committed to raising the attainment and self-esteem of learners with additional needs.
You Will Have
A Level 3 qualification or above (essential)
Experience providing effective coaching or support to learners individually or in group settings
The ability to monitor and track learner progress, attendance and behaviour
Strong written and verbal communication skills
The ability to motivate and support students in a college setting
An understanding of safeguarding legislation within education and a commitment to promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults
A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive practice
Experience within Further Education and familiarity with supporting learners with complex needs, including SEMH, would be advantageous.
What's In It for You?
By joining our dedicated ALS team, you will play a key role in empowering learners to overcome barriers and achieve independence. You'll benefit from working within a supportive and collaborative college community that values professional development, inclusivity and innovation.
Ready to make a difference? If you're passionate about inclusive education and want to help shape positive outcomes for learners across our community, we'd love to hear from you.
Barking & Dagenham College is committed to best practice relating to safer recruitment and safeguarding. All employment checks are conducted in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines.
We are proudly an inclusive employer, striving towards an open culture where everyone can be themselves. We welcome applications from all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, race, religion, belief, disability, neurodiversity, sexual orientation or age.