Job Title: Educational Support Assistant
Overview:
Cobram and District Specialist School is a leading educational institution that provides positive learning experiences for students with intellectual disabilities.
The school's vision is to empower students to achieve their full potential in academic, social, emotional, and physical aspects of life.
The school values Respect, Safety, and Try Your Best are the foundation of all activities.
A whole-school approach to Behaviour Management is implemented through Positive Behaviour Support, with regular teaching of school values.
We cater to sixty-four students who require specific support and care.
To be eligible to attend our school, students must undergo an assessment by a psychologist and receive a diagnosis of intellectual disability.
Our curriculum is based on the Victorian Curriculum and Victorian Pathways Curriculum, providing a comprehensive education for our students.
We work closely with parents and other stakeholders to develop individualized education plans (IEPs) that address students' unique needs and goals.
Our curriculum is complemented by additional learning experiences, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, excursions, camps, community projects, and environmental initiatives.
Students are grouped into nine classrooms, catering to different age groups or learning needs.
We collaborate with local schools, service organizations, and health experts to enhance our programs and support our students.
Our facilities include an art room, ALERT room, and a multipurpose area with a separate kitchen.
Students have access to ICT resources, including one-on-one computer/iPad sessions in middle and senior years.
External facilities include playground equipment and an asphalt open play area.
Our school is adjacent to Cobram Primary School, allowing us to utilize their oval and playground facilities as needed.
The senior unit is divided into VPC/VET and Independent Living Skills (SPEC).
Selection Criteria:
* SC1: Demonstrate how you have effectively supported children with special needs or challenging behaviours.
* Explain the strategies used and how you adapted to the children's individual needs.
* SC2: Demonstrated capacity to perform duties consistent with established guidelines and frameworks.
* SC3: Demonstrated capacity to work and collaborate with others in a team environment.
* SC4: Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively in a team environment, including high-level oral and written communication skills.
* SC5: Possess the technical knowledge and expertise relevant to the position.
Job Responsibilities:
* Provide routine support for teachers, including assisting with student routines planning.
* Support communication between teachers and parents.
* Communicate with teachers on routine matters related to students and other responsibilities.
* Provide basic physical care and wellbeing support for students (toileting, meals, lifting).
* Support student comprehension of basic tasks and information.
* Address immediate behavioural presentations in line with school policy.
* Provide basic support and supervision for individuals or groups of up to 4 students.
* Assist in coordinating educational programs, rostering, and liaising with external support services.
* Provide medical intervention support to a student under specific conditions with appropriate training.
* Provide specialised communication support (e.g., AUSLAN and braille).
Benefits:
As an educational support assistant at Cobram and District Specialist School, you will be part of a dedicated team that makes a positive impact on the lives of students with intellectual disabilities.
Join us in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Diversity and Inclusion:
The department values diversity and inclusion, promoting a workforce representative of the community served.
We welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and those with disabilities.
Conditions of Employment:
All staff employed by the department have access to a range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
Appointment of successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory pre-employment check.
A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment, with induction and support programs provided.