Teacher Aide

About this role

Selection Criteria SC1 Demonstrated capacity to perform duties consistent with established guidelines and frameworks, including coordinating and supporting others in respect to specific work functions relevant to the role. SC2 Demonstrated capacity to work and collaborate with others in a team environment. SC3 Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively in a team environment, including high level oral and written communication skills. SC4 Possess the technical knowledge and expertise relevant to the position. SC5 Demonstrated capacity to provide advice and support to management and other school staff in respect to the work area. SC6 A commitment to professional learning and growth for both self and others. Role [Attendance requirement for this position] An education support class position at this range will perform tasks that are carried out in accordance with guidelines, accepted practice, and school policy under supervision and direction. This may include coordination of other education support class staff within the work area or educational program. An education support class position supports the educational services being provided to students but must not include duties of a teacher as defined in clause 2.6.1 of the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (Vic) or its successor. Supervision of students can be required individually or in groups up to 4 in controlled circumstances and where the responsibility for students remains clearly with a teacher. Certification and/or qualifications of up to three years can be required at this level (noting that Registered Nurse is not included at this level, the first level for which is Level 1 range 3). A role at this range may include: • Specific support tasks to achieve outcomes. Typically, this will involve accountability for a single function, (e.g. ensuring data is properly maintained) or the co-ordination of a work area under the direction of the principal or a manager. • Assisting teachers, within an educational program, by undertaking specific support tasks or the coordination of the support function. • Supervised health and wellbeing support tasks, medical intervention support tasks, or other specialised student/teacher support roles (e.g. enrolled nurses performing the role as described in schedule 3). These roles require specific qualifications and/or training, including roles where further training must be undertaken from time to time. The role is for a specific purpose, for which there will be direct accountability as opposed to support roles that are carried out by a range of staff performing routine tasks under direction. • Technical tasks that require a sound knowledge of basic technical and/or scientific principles that are used to develop and adapt work methods and make judgements where there are clear guidelines and limited options. Routine technical support in libraries, science, and information technology would be typical examples. An education support class position at this range commencing at the base will initially be limited to undertaking routine tasks that are carried out under close supervision and direction. Work that carries some degree of independence will generally involve a limited number of tasks performed on a regular basis where priorities are clear, procedures are well established, and direction is readily available. Subject to any specific qualification and/or training requirement, an education support class employee employed in this range may be progressively required to undertake coordination, specialised student/teacher support tasks, or technical tasks as experience in the role is gained. Responsibilities Responsibilities may include: • Provides routine support for teachers including assisting with planning of student routines • Supports communication between teachers and parents • Communicates with teachers on routine matters related to students and/or other responsibilities • Provides basic physical care and wellbeing support for students such as toileting, meals, and lifting • Communicating with student/s to support comprehension of basic tasks and information • Addresses immediate behavioural presentations relating to specific students within a classroom setting aligned to school policy and procedure • Provides basic support and supervision for individuals or groups of up to 4 students within a classroom setting • Supports teachers in the coordination of educational programs independently or under minimal supervision, including rostering and organising the work of a team of aides, providing routine co-ordination, guidance, and support to other student support staff, liaising with external providers of support services about clearly defined support needs and resources, assisting teachers with the communication of student outcomes and educational programs • Provides medical intervention support to a student/s, under specific conditions, with appropriate training and guidance • Provides specialised communication support for students and teachers in areas such as AUSLAN and braille Who May Apply Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfill the specific requirements of the position. Diversity and Inclusion The department is committed to diversity and inclusion and developing a workforce that is representative of the community we service. We value diversity and inclusion in all forms - culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQA+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department. The Department recognises that the provision of safe, respectful and inclusive workplaces is essential to high performance and promotes flexible work and diversity across all schools and Department workplaces. It is our policy to provide reasonable adjustments for staff with disability (see Workplace adjustment guidelines ). Additional support and advice on the recruitment process is available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates from the Koorie Outcomes Division (KOD) via [email protected] Applicants seeking part-time employment are encouraged to apply for any teaching service position and, if they are the successful candidate, request a reduced time fraction. Such requests will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to the operational requirements of the school. Child Safe Standards Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards. All schools have a Child Safety Code of Conduct consistent with the department's exemplar available at: https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/child-safe-standards/policy DE Values The department's employees commit to upholding the department's Values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. The department's Values complement each school's own values and underpin the behaviours the community expects of Victorian public sector employees, including those who work in Victorian Government Schools. Information on the department values is available at: https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/values-department-vps-school-employees/overview Other Information • All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements. • Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check. • A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided. • Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hrweb/Pages/default.aspx Conditions of Employment • All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements. • Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check. • A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided. • Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hrweb/Pages/default.aspx Location Profile Teach at Lake Colac School ¿ Where Evidence-Based Practice Meets the Learning and Wellbeing Needs of All Students To see our staff and students in action, and why you should apply to work in our school, start by visiting our website at www.lakecolacschool.vic.edu.au or organise a school visit with us now. Lake Colac School (LCS) is a dynamic and inclusive specialist school located in the regional town of Colac, serving students with diverse learning needs from Early Education through to the year they turn 18. We provide contemporary, research-based education and wellbeing programs for students across a broad catchment area that includes Colac and the surrounding coastal district. Our students have a diagnosis of intellectual disability¿ranging from mild to profound¿and many present with additional needs, which make them suitable for the tailored education that they receive from our expert staff. Every day, our staff make a tangible difference in the lives of these young people by creating supportive, structured, and joyful learning environments where every student can thrive. Our Approach to Teaching and Learning At Lake Colac School, teaching is grounded in the science of learning and evidence-based pedagogies. Our programs are designed using Cognitive Load Theory, Explicit Instruction, and whole-school systems and supports to ensure that teaching is clear, purposeful, and accessible to every learner. We provide: • Very small class sizes (from 5 up to 13 students) that enable meaningful connections and targeted teaching. • Multiple teacher aides in each classroom, ensuring every student receives individualised support. • Structured routines, visual supports, and explicit teaching that maximise engagement and learning efficiency. • Collaborative Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) where staff share practice, analyse student progress, and continuously refine their craft. • Supportive leadership, coaching, and mentoring by experienced leaders who understands what it takes to support staff to address the needs of each learner and to become a part of an established positive school culture Our teachers are lifelong learners who embrace reflection, collaboration, and innovation. You¿ll be supported to implement best-practice pedagogy, build deep professional expertise, and see the impact of your teaching every day. Curriculum and Stages of Learning Our Early Education Program (EEP) caters for children aged 2.8 to 4.8 years who present with developmental delays in two or more areas. Guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF), this program develops foundational skills in communication, motor coordination, social-emotional growth, and cognition through guided play and intentional teaching. Across the school, the Victorian Curriculum F¿10 (including Foundation Levels A¿D) provides the basis for a highly differentiated, individualised learning experience. Each student has an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) that supports personalised goals, authentic assessment, and pathways for success. In the senior years, students participate in Enterprise Education, Work Experience, and the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) that prepare them for life beyond school. A Supportive and Collaborative School Culture At Lake Colac School, staff wellbeing and professional growth are as important as student achievement. We believe that great teaching happens in an environment of trust, teamwork, and shared purpose. We value: • A collaborative, caring staff culture where everyone supports each other. • Strong partnerships with families and allied professionals to ensure the best outcomes for students. • A commitment to Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), building student confidence, self-regulation, and resilience. • Ongoing professional development and coaching aligned with the Framework for Improving Student Outcomes (FISO) 2.0 and the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model (VTLM) 2.0. Our new, purpose-built facility in Colac West (opened 2024) provides modern, accessible, and flexible learning spaces designed to meet the diverse needs of our students and staff. Join Our Team If you are a teacher who values evidence-based practice, collaboration, and making a real difference, Lake Colac School offers an inspiring and rewarding environment to grow your career. You¿ll work alongside passionate colleagues, supported by strong leadership, professional learning opportunities, and a community that truly values education. At Lake Colac School, you¿ll have the time, structure, and support to do what you do best ¿ teach well, and change lives.