Learning Support Assistants

GETTING TO KNOW  …   THE LSA TEAM

At New Rickstones Academy, we work hard to ensure that ALL students maximise their learning time.  Students are regularly supported in lesson by our departmental Learning Support Assistants.

At the start of the lesson an LSA will agree with the teacher the key groups or individuals who will need discreet focused support to help them access the curriculum and progress in their learning.

When working with these targeted students while there is whole-class teaching some typical approaches are:

1. Encouraging students to concentrate and take part.

Sometimes students need to be reminded discreetly that they must look at and listen to the teacher and to other pupils who are contributing to the lesson.

2. Repeating the questions that the teacher asks and helping the pupils to find an answer.

An LSA could repeat the question using simpler vocabulary or explaining the words that are being used.

3. Alerting the teacher if the pupils have some answers.

Some students lack confidence and are not willing to speak out in front of the class even when they have an answer. This is an opportunity to value their contribution.

4. Asking further questions that will help the pupils to think when they are discussing in a group or in pairs.

Giving the students clues when they are stuck or asking the pupils to discuss what the question is asking can help understanding.

5. Using a copy of the resource that the teacher has on the board to focus the pupils.