Dyslexia Specialist

Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.

At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back.

We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced 1:1 Dyslexia Specialist to join our fantastic team.

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 20 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".

As a Dyslexia and SEND Support Specialist, you will play a key role in helping students with SEND and EHCPs access learning and achieve their individual outcomes. Working closely with students, teachers, parents and external professionals, you will deliver targeted literacy and dyslexia interventions through one-to-one, small group and in-class support. You will help students develop confidence, independence and positive learning behaviours, while supporting their emotional wellbeing and organisational skills.

The role also involves monitoring progress, maintaining accurate records, facilitating access arrangements, preparing learning resources, and ensuring effective communication between the SEND team, teaching staff and families.

This role is a FTC until August 2027, working 10 hours a week.

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Dyslexia Specialist with a Level 5 Dyslexia qualification and experience supporting students with dyslexia in a school setting. You will be confident delivering engaging one-to-one and small group interventions, building positive relationships with young people, and adapting your approach to meet a range of SEND needs. The successful candidate will be organised, resilient and an effective communicator, with strong record-keeping skills and a calm, supportive manner.

You will enjoy working in a busy environment, be committed to helping students succeed, and hold GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4/5 or above.

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in our company's pension scheme
• Free lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays
• Free parking on site (subject to availability)
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third-party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.