Learning Resource Officer

There is an exciting opportunity to join the Visual Impairment team as our next Learning Resource Officer, who will have responsibility for sourcing, modifying and producing learning materials in a range of accessible formats for children with visual impairment. You will be joining a dedicated team of professionals delivering high quality support to children and young people in a range of settings across the city. The postholder will also provide technical support to staff and young people using specialist equipment and software. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with excellent ICT, organisational and team‑working skills to further develop practice in this specialist area which involves the use of Braille, large print, audio, tactile diagrams and access technology.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Teachers of the Visual Impairment to design and prepare specialist teaching materials.
• Prepare, produce and develop curriculum materials and resources in a variety of formats (Braille, tactile diagrams, large print, audio) as required by pupils in mainstream primary and secondary, post 16 and Specialist Inclusive Learning Centres.
• Modify and re‑format standard assessment materials (e.g. SATS papers).
• Maintain and administer the Visual Impairment Team’s resource library, including checking and ordering stock and organising equipment.
• Develop training packages and deliver training in modification techniques to school staff, within schools and at city‑wide training events.
• Support school staff in the use of ICT to produce modified resources.
• Provide advice on the use of ICT to Sensory Service staff.
• Provide information about accessible resources to schools.
• Handle queries from schools, parents and outside agencies regarding learning resources.
• Source specialist resources from external suppliers and liaise with outside agencies.
• Produce accessible communication materials (e.g. newsletters, leaflets) for schools, pupils and families.
• Research and update own knowledge in developments in accessible resources and ICT, including participation in training and regional groups.
• Support others in using accessible resources and technology in a range of settings.
• Attend relevant meetings as required.
• Promote the influence of the voice of the child or young person.
• Take appropriate steps to promote and ensure the safeguarding of children while following agreed policies and practice.
• Participate in training and development activities to ensure up‑to‑date knowledge and skills.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the post as required by the City Lead Teacher of the VI.
• Comply with the requirements of all Leeds City Council policies, procedures and staff instructions, including responsibilities under the Health and Safety Policy and Procedures.
• Actively promote and support Leeds City Council’s Policies on Equal Opportunities and work in an anti‑oppressive manner.
• Have high expectations of all CYP with sensory impairment and a commitment to ensure they achieve their full potential.
• Commit to working in partnership with all relevant agencies, children and young people and their families.
• Commit to the full inclusion of children with SEN in educational settings.
• Commit to continuous improvement in all areas and work towards delivering the Best City Ambition of Health & Wellbeing, Inclusive Growth and Zero Carbon.
• Understand and embrace Leeds City Council Values and Behaviours and codes of conduct.
• Able to understand and observe Leeds City Council policies and procedures.
• Carry out all duties having regard to an employee’s responsibility under Health, Safety and Wellbeing.
• Willingness to actively participate in appraisal, training and development activities to ensure up‑to‑date knowledge and skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required commensurate to grade.
• Be aware of and support difference and ensure equality for all working in an anti‑discriminatory manner, upholding equality & diversity of Leeds City Council.
• Recognise and appropriately challenge any incidents of racism, bullying, harassment, victimisation and any form of abuse, reporting any concerns to the appropriate person.
• Work within the flexibility protocol adopted by the Council.

Personal Specification – Desirable Requirements

• Good numeracy and literacy skills – GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C or equivalent.
• Confident use of IT, including competence in using Microsoft Word (advanced features), Excel and PowerPoint, and technology such as Apple products to support accessibility.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High expectations for all CYP with a vision impairment and a commitment to ensure they achieve their full potential.

Qualifications and Experience

• Effective use of ICT, including advanced features of Microsoft Word.
• Good numeracy and literacy skills – GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C or equivalent.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work to deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to liaison and collaborate with other professionals.
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Competence and experience in using Microsoft packages such as Excel and PowerPoint.
• Competence in using technology such as Apple products to support accessibility.
• Ability to self‑evaluate learning needs and actively seek learning opportunities.
• Competence in using more advanced features of Microsoft Word.
• Working knowledge of uncontracted and contracted Braille.
• General knowledge of national/foundation stage curriculum.
• Awareness of how to reduce barriers to access in printed resources for learners with visual impairment.
• Experience presenting or training adults.
• Experience modifying or reformatting printed materials, including exam papers, for learners with visual impairment.
• Experience producing Braille materials, including the use of ICT for this purpose.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement plus statutory holidays.
• Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements subject to service requirements.
• A clear career pathway and continuing professional development opportunities.
• A range of staff benefits to help you boost your wellbeing and make your money go further.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We promote diversity and aim for a workforce that reflects the population of Leeds.

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