BSL Support Teaching Assistant
Are you a skilled communicator fluent in British Sign Language (BSL) who wants to make a profound impact on a child's education? Do you have the patience, empathy, and dedication required to support pupils with complex communication needs? Are you looking for a rewarding, full-time role within a highly supportive specialist setting to start immediately?
If so, Randstad Education wants to hear from you. We are currently recruiting a dedicated and proactive BSL Support Teaching Assistant for a fantastic specialist school site in the Leeds area. Please note that this role specifically requires British Sign Language (BSL) skills, rather than Makaton.
Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday (Term-time only)
Start Date: ASAP on a long-term basis
Requirements: Strong proficiency in BSL (Makaton is not suitable for this specific role)
About the School
They are an outstanding, highly regarded specialist school dedicated to providing an inclusive, stimulating, and safe learning environment for pupils with wide-ranging Special Educational Needs (SEN) and complex communication difficulties. Operating across modern facilities, they focus heavily on individual progress, independence, and giving every child a voice. The team there is collaborative, welcoming, and entirely committed to helping every student access the curriculum and thrive.
Skills Required
BSL Proficiency: Confident communication skills in British Sign Language (BSL) to effectively support deaf or non-verbal pupils.
Communication Barriers: A deep understanding of the unique educational and social barriers faced by students with complex speech, language, and communication needs.
Adaptability: The ability to simplify and rephrase classroom instructions and learning materials dynamically to suit the student's cognitive levels.
Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively alongside the class teacher, permanent staff, and speech and language therapists.
Job Responsibilities
Providing 1:1 or small group support to pupils, using BSL to facilitate communication and ensure complete access to the lesson.
Assisting the class teacher in adapting learning resources and managing the classroom environment effectively.
Helping students develop their independent communication skills, social interaction, and self-esteem during school hours.
Monitoring and recording the student's small-step progress, ensuring all safeguarding protocols are strictly followed.
Essential Requirements
BSL Qualification/Experience: A recognised qualification in British Sign Language (Level 2 or above is highly desirable) or proven, significant experience using BSL in an educational setting.
Right to Work: Full eligibility to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available).
DBS: An enhanced DBS on the update service, or a willingness to undergo a new check via Randstad.
Experience: Previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs within the UK.
Why Choose Randstad?
When you partner with Randstad Education, you are supported by a global recruitment leader with a deeply personal, local approach. Benefits include:
Referral Scheme: Earn £300 in Love2shop vouchers for every person you successfully refer to us (T&Cs apply).
CPD Opportunities: Free access to professional development courses, including Team Teach training.
Dedicated Support: Guidance from a specialist SEND consultant to manage your placement and support your career goals.
How to Apply & Contact Info
If you have the unique skills required to bridge the communication gap for a young person, please apply directly or get in touch for further details:
Email: kirsty.booth@randstad.co.uk Call: 0113 246 2500
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