Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches

SPARK Schools, one of South Africa’s most innovative school networks, offers dynamic career opportunities for Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches. These roles are crucial in ensuring the smooth delivery of lessons, supporting students, and enhancing learning through SPARK’s unique blended learning model.

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This article outlines the roles, responsibilities, requirements, and how to apply for these positions at SPARK Schools.

Role of Teaching Assistants at SPARK Schools

Teaching Assistants at SPARK Schools provide vital support to classroom teachers, ensuring that daily lessons run smoothly and that students receive additional help when needed. They work closely with teachers to manage classroom activities, help with lesson preparation, and engage with students during class.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting lesson delivery: Assisting teachers in the classroom by helping with instructional activities and group work.
• Classroom management: Maintaining a positive learning environment by helping with discipline, organization, and student engagement.
• Providing extra help to students: Working with individual students or small groups to reinforce lessons and help struggling learners.

Role of Learning Coaches at SPARK Schools

Learning Coaches focus on facilitating online learning through SPARK Schools’ blended learning model, which integrates technology with traditional teaching. They monitor students’ use of educational technology, provide guidance for independent learning, and ensure that students are making progress on digital platforms.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing digital learning: Monitoring student progress on SPARK’s online learning platforms and troubleshooting any technical issues.
• Individualized support: Providing one-on-one guidance and feedback to students, ensuring they understand the material and are staying on track.
• Student progress tracking: Ensuring students are achieving learning goals and addressing any academic or technical challenges they face.

Daily Responsibilities of Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches

For Teaching Assistants:

• Assisting with lessons: Helping to facilitate activities, distribute materials, and ensure students are engaged.
• Classroom management: Keeping the learning environment orderly and productive.
• Helping struggling students: Providing additional instruction and support to students who need extra attention.

For Learning Coaches:

• Monitoring online activities: Ensuring students stay on task while using educational technology.
• Assisting with technology: Helping students troubleshoot technical issues they may encounter while using learning software.
• Guiding independent learning: Encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning and providing support when needed.

Skills Required for Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches

To succeed in these roles at SPARK Schools, candidates need a combination of interpersonal, organizational, and technical skills, including:

• Communication skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to engage with students, teachers, and parents.
• Organization: Ability to manage multiple tasks and assist with lesson preparation and classroom activities.
• Patience and empathy: A passion for working with children and the ability to work with diverse learning needs.
• Tech-savviness: For Learning Coaches, familiarity with educational technology and online learning platforms is essential.

Educational Requirements for Teaching Assistants at SPARK Schools

To apply for a Teaching Assistant position at SPARK Schools, you generally need:

• Matric (Grade 12).
• Experience working with children in an educational setting is highly beneficial.
• Further studies in education or childcare are advantageous but not mandatory.

Educational Requirements for Learning Coaches

For Learning Coaches, SPARK Schools requires:

• Matric (Grade 12).
• Experience with educational technology or online learning platforms is advantageous.
• Additional qualifications in education or digital learning are a plus.

Salaries for Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches at SPARK Schools

Salaries for Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches vary depending on qualifications and experience.

• Teaching Assistants: ZAR 100,000 – ZAR 180,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Learning Coaches: ZAR 120,000 – ZAR 220,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

Benefits of Working as a Teaching Assistant or Learning Coach at SPARK Schools

SPARK Schools offers several benefits to Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches, including:

• Professional development: Regular training and development opportunities to enhance skills.
• Employee benefits: Access to health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
• Collaborative environment: A supportive work culture where staff work closely with teachers, students, and colleagues.

Career Growth Opportunities for Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches

SPARK Schools encourages career growth by offering:

• Promotion to senior roles: Teaching Assistants and Learning Coaches can progress to roles such as Lead Teacher or Instructional Coach.
• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in areas such as educational technology, curriculum support, or instructional coaching.
• Training programs: Access to internal and external professional development programs to improve skills and knowledge.

How to Apply for Teaching Assistant and Learning Coach Jobs at SPARK Schools

To apply for a Teaching Assistant or Learning Coach position at SPARK Schools:

1. Visit the SPARK Schools Careers Page: Go to the SPARK Schools website and navigate to the Careers section.
2. Search for job openings: Look for available positions as a Teaching Assistant or Learning Coach.
3. Prepare your application: Update your CV, gather your qualifications, and write a compelling cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.
4. Submit your application: Follow the online application instructions provided on the SPARK Schools website.