Assistive Technology Specialist

To meet the emerging needs of our learners with SEND and High Needs this role requires an experienced professional to lead on the development of assistive technology and work with curriculum areas to embed the use of this technology across the organisation. The Assistive Technology Specialist will be responsible for supporting the development of staff skills, digital literacy and researching and trialing the latest innovations in the use of assistive technology.
- Develop strong and effective relationships with Curriculum links and members of the central SEND team to share and develop good practice throughout the group.
- Work with the Head and Deputy Head of SEND to promote and develop the use of assistive technology as a means of enabling learner independence.
- Coordinate group wide training for staff on assistive technology, sourcing and delivering training, and liaising with curriculum departments throughout the group.
- Instigate, develop and facilitate cross group assistive technology related work streams and projects, working with leaders and engaging students, staff and external stakeholders.
- Conduct market research to identify effective products and services to suit the needs of the learners and the organisation.
- Participate in relevant research opportunities to support the wider aim of becoming a leading provider of inclusive learning.
- Maintain and update knowledge of educational and technological research to develop evidence-based practice, actively enhancing and sharing own learning, skills and experience through appropriate professional development activities.
- You will bring passion and commitment to the role and make a contribution towards developing inclusive practices and positive outcomes for disadvantaged and vulnerable students with SEND.
- This role will include a specific focus on the review, development and coordination of SEND related training throughout the group alongside facilitating opportunities to share good practice.

About Us
Leeds City College is one of the largest further education institutions in the country and is one of the biggest providers of apprenticeships regionally.

We provide a vibrant and diverse learning environment, delivering excellent and innovative education which is supportive, inspiring and life changing. Leeds City College’s values put students first and are at the heart of everything the college does.

We are committed to lifelong learning and investing in our staff. You’ll have access to a broad variety of training and professional development designed to help you continually develop and grow. We offer a wide range of job vacancies, and our large size means there are always exciting opportunities to progress.

Join us on the journey to being the best that we can collectively be for our students, apprentices, staff and our stakeholders.

**SAFEGUARDING**

**EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION**

We recognise, value and champion diversity & Inclusion. As we engage with a diverse student population we want to ensure we reflect that in our staff population too. For us diversity is about building happy teams, full of people that want to learn and be inspired by each other, by our different experiences and backgrounds. It is important to us that both staff and students achieve their full potential. Diversity is important to us, but inclusion is equally, if not more important. It’s not just about having the representation but also providing the people we recruit with opportunities and valuing everyone’s contributions and perspectives.

There are plenty of benefits available to our staff members, here are just a few:

- **Annual leave entitlement**:

- If you work full time, you'll get at least 27 days holiday plus bank holidays and up to 5 discretionary closure days at Christmas (pro rata for part time staff).
- Support Staff 27 days (increasing to 32 days after 5 years service)
- Academic 37 days
- Senior Management 37 days
- **Generous Pension schemes**
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- **Memberships and discounts** - employees can sign up to various membership cards and discount schemes such as TOTUM card (formerly NUS card).
- **Travel and commuting**:

- discounted travel available through Metro card, Northern Rail, First Bus, Arriva Bus and Cycle to work schemes.
- **Learning and development opportunities** - including staff development days
- **Employee wellbeing initiatives**:

- **Flexible and hybrid working opportunities**:

- this will vary depending on role requirements