Lámh is seeking an experienced candidate to lead a project on Lamh in Schools. They will:

• Examine in detail the needs of Lámh users attending mainstream and special primary schools,

• Design, develop and pilot supports and resources that will enhance communication for those Lámh users.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, experienced professional, who will have the opportunity to initiate significant change for and with school age children who use Lámh.

The focus will be on consultation, development, identification of supports and barriers on the ground and creating models of work and support that are self-sustaining.

THE CANDIDATE: • Will have extensive experience in supporting children with communication needs, in assessment and implementing programmes of support around communication.

Key deliverables: • Carry out extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including interviews and observation, and generate reports based on these consultations. • Consider research and projects already undertaken on this topic (Lámh in Schools etc.) and identify how learnings from these might be incorporated in a plan. • Together with the Lámh Manager, identify key professionals (e.g. Lámh Tutors who are teachers) to form a Working Group to support this project. • Develop resources/packs/models for piloting and initiate pilots. • Identify other areas of potential work. • Identify where funding may be required, e.g. development of resources, for discussion with the Lámh Manager and progression on. • Devise a plan of action for further steps. • Work as part of the Lámh team, including taking part in key events from time to time.

Qualifications: Applicants must have an NFQ Level 8 qualification or higher in the following areas: Speech and language therapy, education, social care/sciences, psychology, nursing, special education, occupational therapy or other relevant area.

Key skills and experience

Essential:

• Experience of working with people with communication needs in a key capacity.

• Experience of working in a school environment.

• In depth knowledge Total Communication approach and AAC.

• Experience in leading projects/initiatives.

• Knowledge of key approaches and legislation in this area.

• Commitment to the social model of disability.

• Report writing and experience of carrying out research.

• Ability to work in a self-directed manner.

• Knowledge of the education system in Ireland.

• Training in Lámh.

To apply, please send detailed CV and cover letter to:

Mary Cullen Manager

Lámh Development Office Innovation Centre Carlow I.T. Kilkenny rd. Carlow Ph. 059-9139657

lamhoffice@gmail.com

www.lamh.org

Closing date for applications 18th January 2019