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 requires someone who is generous with their time and responsive to the needs of students. The list of responsibilities is not definitive or exhaustive, as the tasks will encompass various situations that require initiative and common sense.

The ideal candidate should possess a genuine understanding and appreciation for young people. They must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and be an attentive listener, exhibiting flexibility, reliability, warmth, and friendliness. Sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy are essential traits for this position. Additionally, a sense of humor and the ability to maintain composure in various situations are fundamental for carrying out this role effectively.

The nature of the job requires physical fitness and good stamina. Responsibilities may vary between junior and senior Houses, with roles tailored to the specific circumstances, strengths, and skills of the post holders. Typically, the role involves working 4 out of 5 weekday afternoons, one full day off during the week, two evening duties, and overnight on-call responsibilities. Weekend commitments are approximately 2 out of 3 weekends, with some tutor support required at various times over the weekend.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

The role of the Residential Assistant Houseparent (RAHP) encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including:

• General residential support
• Acting as a tutor for a small group of students, providing individual guidance and support in academic and pastoral areas
• Supporting teaching or coaching staff in areas like drama, music, sport, expeditions, or other areas of specialty

General Duties in the House

• Assisting the Houseparent in promoting the welfare and security of students
• Collaborating with the wider House team
• Performing residential and administrative work
• Supervising students during weekdays and weekends
• Overseeing morning and evening duties in the House
• Providing overnight supervision as needed
• Conducting various boarding and school supervision duties
• Offering study supervision
• Assisting with the co-curricular programme
• Maintaining the medicine cabinet and medical records in accordance with Health Centre guidance
• Supervising and recording medication administration for students
• Executing any other reasonable duties as required 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 begins after the school day concludes on Friday and ends by Monday morning, allowing for one weekday off each week, adjusted according to 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 plus RAHP or HP in House
• 21:30 - 23:00 RAHP or HP on duty
• 23:00 - 07:00 RAHP or HP on overnight call

Friday evenings and weekends are overseen by the RAHP or HP on duty for that weekend, supplemented by occasional tutor support.

Additional Responsibilities

It is vital for the post holder to remain vigilant regarding the School’s Safeguarding guidelines and Staff Prudence code, fostering an appropriate professional relationship with students characterized by effective and caring interactions. They should also:

• Undertake any reasonable tasks as required by the Deputy School Director to ensure smooth team operations
• Understand and implement all school policies and procedures, particularly those concerning the safeguarding of children and young people
• Uphold the ethos and Guiding Principles of the School 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.