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 collaboration with the Houseparent (HP) and House team. It is expected that the Residential Assistant Houseparent (RAHP) will be generous with their time and responsive to the needs of the students. The range of tasks will encompass many situations not explicitly stated, requiring initiative and common sense.

The ideal candidate will have a genuine understanding and affinity for young people, demonstrating good judgment. Strong interpersonal skills are essential, allowing for effective communication with students, parents, and guardians. The post holder should be a good listener, flexible, reliable, warm, and friendly, displaying the tact and diplomacy necessary for such a sensitive role. A sense of humor and the ability to maintain composure in various situations are fundamental to the effective performance of this role.

The nature of this work requires physical fitness and stamina. Each House may have a unique structure based on its specific circumstances and the strengths of individual post holders. The role will vary depending on whether the RAHP works in a junior or senior House, generally requiring the individual to work 4 out of 5 weekday afternoons and one full day off during the week. In addition, there will be two evening duties with accompanying overnight on-call responsibilities. Weekend commitments will occur approximately 2 out of 3 weekends, alongside some tutoring support at various times over the weekend.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the RAHP encompass a variety of duties, including:

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

General Duties in the House

Responsibilities will include:

• Assisting the Houseparent in promoting the welfare and security of students and ensuring the smooth running of the House.
• Collaborating as part of the wider House team.
• Performing residential and administrative work in the House.
• Supervising students during the week in the House.
• Managing weekend duties.
• Carrying out morning and evening duties in the House.
• Providing overnight supervision as required.
• Supervising various boarding and school-related duties.
• Offering study supervision.
• Assisting with the co-curricular program.
• Attending training and support meetings as necessary.
• Maintaining the medicine cabinet and medical records according to Health Centre guidance.
• Overseeing and recording students taking medication, ensuring that prescribed medications are administered in a timely manner.
• Performing any other reasonable duties as required by the School.

Working Week

The Residential Assistant Houseparents work 4 afternoons and 2 evenings per week and are also committed to 2 weekends out of 3. A weekend starts once school ends on Friday and concludes on Monday morning. Each week, they have one weekday off, which varies across houses based on the Houseparent's schedule.

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, supported by RAHP or HP in House.
• 21:30 - 23:00: RAHP or HP on duty.
• 23:00 - 07:00: RAHP or HP on overnight call.

On weekends, the RAHP or HP on duty will manage the responsibilities, complemented by some tutor support at various times throughout the weekend.

Additional Responsibilities

It is critical for the post holder to be continuously aware of the School’s Safeguarding guidelines and Staff Prudence code. Maintaining professional relationships with students characterized by effective working and caring relationships is essential. The individual may also undertake additional tasks as reasonably requested by the Deputy School Director to ensure the smooth running of the team. A thorough understanding and implementation of all school policies, particularly those related to the safeguarding of children and young people, are required. The post holder must embody the School’s Guiding Principles and uphold its ethos at all times.

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