Communication Support Worker

Academic Appointments Ltd; Swillington Common; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 27,000; Part time

Job summary

Academic Appointments Ltd is seeking a BSL Teaching Assistant with experience in educational settings to support Deaf pupils and promote inclusion. You will provide BSL communication support, adapt materials, and collaborate with teachers and specialists to help pupils access learning and develop confidence.

This role requires a recognised British Sign Language qualification (Level 2 or above) and a demonstrable ability to support Deaf learners across academic, social and communication

Qualifications

• Experience in educational settings (mainstream, specialist or alternative provisions).
• British Sign Language Level 2 or above qualification, or equivalent experience using BSL in educational/professional settings.
• Experience supporting Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils and adapting communication methods.

Responsibilities

• Provide BSL communication support to enable pupils to participate in lessons and activities.
• Adapt learning materials and communication methods to individual needs.
• Support pupils' academic, social, emotional, and communication development.
• Encourage independence, confidence and self-advocacy through inclusive practice.
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCOs, Teachers of the Deaf, SLTs and other professionals.
• Promote an inclusive learning environment where Deaf pupils feel valued and can thrive.

Skills

BSL communication

Educational setting experience

Interpersonal skills

Education

BSL qualification Level 2+

Job description

Who are we looking for?

• 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.

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.