Learning Support Assistant | Al Futtaim Education Foundation

Universal American School delivers the US curriculum via New York State Standards. Nurturing inquiry-based learning through multiple pathways including Advanced Placement tracks, IB Diploma Program and Primary Years Program. These personalized pathways equip students with the learning skills and competences necessary to embrace the challenges of an ever-changing world. This means providing students with a wide range of academic and technological skills and developing a range of learning, critical thinking and inquiry skills that will empower students to interrogate learning, promote creativity, problem-solve and give learners agency over their learning to achieve continued success in their chosen pathway and as active citizens in our international community.

UAS is supported by the Al Futtaim Education Foundation Centre for Excellence for Arabic, which aims to promote and enhance the study and understanding of the Arabic language through research, education, and collaboration.

The school is also run on a not-for-profit basis and is part of the Al Futtaim Education Foundation. Founded in 2005, the school has delivered an inclusive, diverse, and rigorous program for our learners. Our alumni have gone on to study at leading institutions of higher education in the US, Canada, the UK and other parts of the world.

Located in Dubai Festival City the UAS campus has extensive facilities on a spacious site including a 25m swimming pool, full gymnasium, 400m running track, grass pitch, art and design studios, teacher wellness room, a newly built state of the art cafeteria, staff professional development space, elementary sports hall and a specialist creative arts block including recording facilities, black box theatre, and ceramics room.

Universal American School is a special place to learn and work and we welcome you to become part of our learning community.

Job Title: Learning Support Assistant (LSA)

Job Summary:

The Learning Support Assistant (LSA) works under the direction of the classroom teacher and Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to support students with diverse learning needs. The LSA helps to create an inclusive learning environment by providing individualized and small group support, assisting with the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs), and promoting student independence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Student Support:
• Provide individualized or small group support to students with learning difficulties or special educational needs (SEN).
• Assist students with classroom activities, ensuring they stay on task and understand the material.
• Support students in developing social skills and managing their behavior.
• Instructional Assistance:
• Work with teachers to modify and adapt lessons to meet the specific needs of students.
• Assist in the implementation of IEPs, ensuring that the educational needs of each student are met.
• Help prepare instructional materials and classroom resources.
• Classroom Management:
• Assist with the management of student behavior, using positive reinforcement strategies.
• Support the teacher in maintaining a safe and positive learning environment.
• Supervise students during break times, field trips, and other school activities as required.
• Communication:
• Maintain open and effective communication with teachers, SENCO, and other staff members regarding student progress and any concerns.
• Provide feedback to students in a constructive and supportive manner.
• Communicate with parents, under the guidance of the teacher, to keep them informed about their child’s progress.
• Record Keeping:
• Assist in maintaining accurate records of student progress and behavior.
• Document observations and contribute to progress reports.
• Help in preparing reports for meetings and parent-teacher conferences.
• Professional Development:
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge related to supporting students with SEN.
• Stay informed about current best practices in special education and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Collaboration:
• Work collaboratively with the teaching team and other LSAs to share strategies and resources.
• Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, and professional learning communities.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Education: A minimum of a high school diploma; a degree or certification in special education, teaching assistance, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Previous experience working with children, especially those with SEN, is highly desirable.
• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to adapt to different learning styles and needs.
• Basic understanding of child development and learning processes.
• Proficiency in using technology to support learning.
  
  

Working Conditions:

• Work Environment: Classroom setting within an international school.
• Hours: Typically, school hours from 7:30 am - 4:00 pm.
  
  

Additional Requirements:

• Background Check: Successful completion of a background check.
• Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of student information.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work in a multicultural environment and show sensitivity to cultural differences.
  
  

The Learning Support Assistant plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive educational environment, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and socially.