Dyslexia coach

Main duties

1. To support students to develop learning strategies to assist them in overcoming difficulties encountered as a result of dyslexia, dyspraxia or other specific learning difficulties. This may include helping with:
   • Literacy skills including spelling, grammar, comprehension and reading techniques
   • Computational and basic mathematical skills
   • Time management skills
   • Organisational skills
   • Stress management
   • Study skills techniques; including mind mapping, memory techniques, concentration techniques, notetaking techniques assignment planning, essay writing skills, research method skills, how to proofread and revision techniques
2. Develop an agreed learning plan which is appropriate to the students’ needs and demonstrates the development of techniques and strategies which will help to promote independent learning and progression.
3. Provide within agreed time-frames, progress reports and associated documentation in consultation with the student and the Register of Support Providers.
4. Ensure that electronic time-sheets are completed on a regular basis and by key dates as advised by the Register of Support Providers.
5. Maintain confidential records, including an electronic record of all contact with students and take into consideration the safeguarding of these, whilst adhering to the requirements of Data Protection legislation in Northern Ireland.
6. Comply with the University’s equal opportunities policy and promote equal opportunity in all aspects of the role.
7. Comply with the University’s health and safety policies whilst on campus.
8. Maintain an up to date knowledge of relevant legislative developments and best practice within the post-16 education sector in relation to support for disabled students
9. Maintain professional competence, status and memberships of professional bodies.

Educational and professional qualifications

Essential

• Educated to Degree level.
• OCR/RSA Certificate for Teachers of Learners with Specific Learning Difficulties, or equivalent qualification.
• Application and qualification documentation

Previous experience/ training

Essential

• Experience of providing specialist tuition support to students with specific learning difficulties in the educational environment.
• Experience in supporting students in post 16-year-old education with the development of learning strategies which will help to promote independent learning and encourage progression.
• Experience and knowledge of additional support aids for students with specific learning difficulties including assistive technology.
• Application and Interview

Desirable

• Experience of supporting students in higher education with the development of learning strategies and appropriate study techniques.
• Application and Interview

Job-related achievements

Essential

• Experience in the development of learning plans which are appropriate to the needs of students in the higher education environment and which include the development of strategies and techniques to promote independent learning and progression.
• Application and Interview

Inter-personal skills

Essential

• Excellent written communication skills and ability to communicate with students on a one to one basis using exceptional interpersonal skills.
• An understanding of the responsibilities associated with maintaining confidentiality and an awareness of the requirements under data protection legislation.
• Application and Interview

Other factors

Essential

• Flexibility over working hours.
• All successful candidates will be expected to complete an Access NI (Enhanced disclosure) check.