MAIN PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

As the Access Arrangements Coordinator, you will work alongside the Director of Learning Support and Strategies, and the wider department, to ensure that key admin is provided to support pupil referrals and exam access arrangements.
You will oversee the process for managing access arrangements in line with JCQ Regulations to ensure that every pupil receives the appropriate adjustments and that all regulations are adhered to. This process includes organising assessments, liaising with specialist assessors and ensuring that all necessary paperwork and evidence is in place for applications to exam boards.
An empathetic and understanding approach towards neurodivergent pupils is a must.

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage and track initial referrals for learning support from teachers/ pupils/parents/specialists whilst providing first level support (referral to teaching and support resources and keeping DoLSS informed)
• Setting up, and managing, spreadsheets and systems to help with monitoring and recording of information within the department.
• Work closely with the Exams Office to manage the JCQ Access Arrangements Online application process for public examinations and manage an electronic filing system which includes all required regulatory documentation for annual JCQ inspections.
• Keep accurate records monitoring and tracking pupil history of need, normal way of working, from contact with teachers and monitoring during exams and initiate changes if necessary.
• Manage and prioritise the assessment list and diarise/liaise with specialist assessors regarding pupil assessment.
• To comply with all GDPR regulations.
• To liaise with previous schools regarding AAs, ensuring that all paperwork is in place to roll forward arrangements from GCSE to A-Level.
• To ensure relevant teachers and parents are updated regarding pupil access arrangements.
• To maintain valid qualifications relating to AAs in line with JCQ guidelines and undertake annual training on changes to JCQ Regulations.
• Liaise with external assessors and ensure they have appropriate and up to date qualifications
• To clarify subjects for laptop use by pupils in public exam years and for internal exams.
• Assisting with administration of internal exams and access arrangements.
• Provide support to neurodivergent pupils during their exams. For example, invigilation, supervision of rest breaks and, scribing or reading for exams.
• Liaise with the HMMs, tutors, Health Centre, and teachers to ensure that documentation related to pupils supported by the department is appropriately managed and that any issues can be resolved swiftly.
• Provide admin assistance to the LSS Department where required (dealing with correspondence/drafting and/or filing letters/photocopying/electronic filing).
• Attending and producing minutes for meetings as necessary.
• Assisting with and managing ad hoc projects.
• When not required by the department, there will be a requirement to support the work of other areas of the School as directed.
• Depending on the skills of the successful candidate, the coordinator may also support a small number of pupils with study skills or personal organisation/ learning strategies.
• Any other reasonable management request.

Person Specification:

• Experience of working within a school or educational setting, with a strong understanding of JCQ regulations relating to access arrangements, or willing to undertake training.
• Experience managing sensitive and confidential information in line with GDPR guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with a wide range of people, including pupils, staff and external professionals.
• Ability to work calmly under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
• Empathetic and understanding approach towards all pupils.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A passion for supporting inclusive education and ensuring equal access for all pupils.
• Proactive and flexible attitude towards work with a willingness to take on a new challenge.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills, with attention to detail.
• Educated to at least A-level standard or equivalent, and a keen interest in maths and English will be desirable for candidates who wish to support pupils, if there is an opportunity to do so.
• Excellent IT skills, including proficiency in the use of Microsoft Excel, Work and Outlook.
• Experience of working with people with disabilities is desirable, but not essential.