Residential Assistant Houseparent / Residential Assistant Housemother

Job Purpose

This is a live-in residential position where the post holder will be responsible for the safeguarding, welfare, and security of students in conjunction with the Houseparent (HP) and House team. The role demands a Resident Assistant Houseparent (RAHP) who is generous with their time and responsive to the needs of the students. While the following specifications are not exhaustive, they encapsulate a variety of tasks that will require initiative and common sense.

The ideal candidate should possess a strong affinity for young people and demonstrate sound judgment. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, allowing effective communication with both students and their parents or guardians. A good listener, the candidate will be flexible, reliable, warm, and friendly, showing sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy when required. A good sense of humor and the ability to handle situations with composure and sensitivity are also fundamental attributes for success in this role.

The nature of the work requires physical fitness and a good level of stamina. Each House may have a slightly different structure for the role, reflecting the unique strengths and skills of the individual post holders. The responsibilities may vary between junior and senior Houses, with typical working hours of 4 out of 5 weekday afternoons, one full day off during the week, and two evening duties that include overnight on-call responsibilities. Weekend commitments will generally involve working approximately 2 out of 3 weekends, alongside some tutoring support at different times throughout the weekends.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the RAHP may encompass a variety of tasks, including:

• General residential support
• Acting as a tutor for a small group of students, providing individual guidance and support in both academic and pastoral areas
• Supporting teaching or coaching staff in areas such as drama, music, sports, expeditions, or other special interests

Additional duties within the House will consist of:

• Assisting the Houseparent in promoting the welfare and security of students and ensuring smooth operations in the House
• Collaborating as part of the wider House team
• Conducting residential and administrative tasks in the House
• Providing weekday supervision within the House
• Carrying out weekend duties
• Assuming morning and evening responsibilities in the House
• Providing overnight supervision in the House as needed
• Performing various boarding and school supervision duties as required
• Monitoring study sessions
• Assisting with the co-curricular programme
• Attending training and support meetings as necessary
• Maintaining the medicine cabinet and medical records in accordance with Health Centre guidelines
• Supervising and keeping records of students taking medication, ensuring timely administration according to prescription instructions
• Carrying out any other duties that may be reasonably requested by the School

Working Week

Residential Assistant Houseparents work 4 afternoons and 2 evenings per week, along with 2 weekends out of 3. A weekend commences after school on Friday and concludes on Monday morning. Each RAHP has one weekday off per week, which varies across Houses in accordance with the Houseparent's timetable.

Example of a Weekday Routine

• 11:55 - 12:05: Handover from House Assistant to RAHP
• 11:55 - 17:00: RAHP on duty
• 16:15 - 21:30: Tutor on duty alongside RAHP or HP in House
• 21:30 - 23:00: RAHP or HP on duty
• 23:00 - 07:00: RAHP or HP on overnight call

Throughout the weekend, staff coverage will include the RAHP or HP on duty, supported by tutors at various times.

Additional Requirements

It is essential for the post holder to remain aware of the School’s Safeguarding guidelines and Staff Prudence code, maintaining professional relationships with students characterized by effective and caring interactions. Additionally, the candidate will be expected to:

• Undertake any other tasks reasonably required by the Deputy School Director to facilitate smooth operations within the team.
• Understand and implement school policies and procedures, especially those related to the safeguarding of children and young people.
• Uphold the School’s Guiding Principles and ethos at all times.

Aiglon is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Apply online using the form below.