As a British Sign Language (BSL) Teaching Assistant, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Deaf and hearing-impaired children and young people. By providing specialist communication support through British Sign Language, you will help pupils access learning, develop confidence, and achieve their full potential within an inclusive educational environment.
Who are we looking for?
A successful candidate will:
- Have experience working in an educational setting, including mainstream schools, specialist provisions, or alternative provisions.
- Hold a recognised British Sign Language qualification (Level 2, 3, or above), or have equivalent experience using BSL in educational or professional settings.
- Have experience supporting Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils, adapting communication methods to meet individual needs.
- Be confident, patient, empathetic, and able to build positive, trusting relationships with pupils, families, and school staff.
- Demonstrate resilience, flexibility, and a proactive approach to supporting pupils' learning, communication, and personal development.
What to expect?
Working as a BSL Teaching Assistant requires excellent communication skills, patience, and adaptability. Every pupil has unique communication preferences and learning needs, and your role will be to ensure they have equal access to education and school life.
You will:
- Provide communication support using British Sign Language to enable pupils to fully participate in lessons and school activities.
- Adapt learning materials and communication methods to suit individual pupils' needs.
- Support pupils' academic, social, emotional, and communication development.
- Encourage independence, confidence, and self-advocacy through positive reinforcement and inclusive practice.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, Teachers of the Deaf, speech and language therapists, and other professionals to deliver effective support.
- Promote an inclusive learning environment where Deaf pupils feel valued, understood, and able to thrive.
Benefits of Supply Teaching with Academic Appointments
- Opportunities to work across a wide range of primary, secondary, and specialist educational settings.
- Flexible short-term, long-term, and permanent opportunities to suit your career goals.
- Dedicated specialist consultants with expertise in SEND and communication support roles.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
What we need from you
- A recognised British Sign Language qualification (Level 2 or above is desirable; higher qualifications are advantageous).
- Experience supporting Deaf or hearing-impaired children and young people within an educational setting.
- Two professional references.
- A valid Enhanced DBS Certificate or willingness to obtain one (assistance available).
- Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and a commitment to promoting the welfare of children and young people.
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now or contact Chloe for more information.
Rate of pay is dependent on qualifications, experience, and payroll method.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
