Overview:
We are seeking a patient structured and experienced tutor to provide afternoon academic support for a 14-year-old boy who is currently in Grade 9 at a school in Knysna (IEB curriculum). He has ADD and a mild learning disability. He is a bright empathetic and friendly young man with a love for the outdoors and water sport. The ideal candidate is someone who can step in with confidence and warmth someone who will listen to him gently guide him back to focus and help him develop the executive functioning skills he needs to reach his potential. Teaching or psychology background is preferred.
Main purpose of the job:
To provide structured afternoon tutoring and academic support for the learner focusing on executive functioning homework organisation reading spelling writing and study skills helping him build confidence and independence in preparation for senior high school.
Job Objectives:
Meet the learner at home (or collect from school preferably) from approximately 14h30 Monday to Thursday
Allow brief snack and debrief time before moving into structured tutoring (approximately 2 hours per afternoon)
Check and organise school bag to ensure readiness for the next school day
Support homework studying and task planning across all Grade 9 IEB subjects
Assist with executive functioning: breaking down tasks project planning prioritising and maintaining focus
Provide reading spelling and writing support these are key areas of difficulty
Work through subjects taught understanding content at Grade 9 level to guide and facilitate learning
Gently redirect the learner when he is distracted without applying pressure or creating anxiety
Maintain regular and open communication with parents
Assist with holiday support on an hourly rate basis if required
Requirements
General Requirements:
Valid drivers licence and own reliable transport Essential (for school collection)
Fluency in English Essential
Availability Monday to Thursday approximately 14h30 17h00 during school terms Essential
Willingness to commit for at least one year Essential
Comfortable working with a child who has ADD and a learning disability Essential
Job Related Work Experience:
Previous tutoring teaching assistant or academic support experience Essential
Experience supporting learners with executive functioning difficulties Essential
Experience working with ADD / ADHD or learning disabilities Desirable
Familiarity with the IEB curriculum specifically at high school level Desirable
Job Related Knowledge:
Understanding of ADD and its impact on academic performance Essential
Knowledge of executive functioning and strategies to support it Essential
Understanding of reading spelling and writing difficulties Essential
Awareness of anxiety in learners and how to work sensitively with it Desirable
Job Related Skills:
Ability to be firm yet kind setting gentle boundaries without creating resistance
Strong listening skills
Skill in redirecting a learner back to the task at hand without creating conflict Ability to break down complex tasks into manageable steps
Patience and consistency in building structure and routine
Strong organisational and time-management skills
Ability to build a genuine respectful relationship with a teenage boy.
Working Hours:
Days: Monday to Thursday
Hours: Monday Thursday: 14h30 17h00
Location: Lifts from school near central Knysna to home near Leisure Isle/ East head.
Benefits
Compensation
Salary: Market related to be discussed (Knysna / Southern Cape rates)
Holiday support: Hourly rate applicable
Support and training from the Facilitation Academy including access to online modules individual training sessions and a wide range of resources. Additional support available for onboarding and communication with the school.
Required Skills:
General Requirements: A valid drivers license and reliable car Essential. Previous experience supporting young neurodiverse children Desirable. Experience as a facilitator for neurodiverse children Desirable. A heart for long-term commitment (preferably 2 years) Essential Job-Related work experience: - Previous experience in a role supporting neurodivergent children - Essential. - Previous experience in teaching - Desirable - Familiarity with special education strategies curriculum adaptation and life skills training. Job-Related Knowledge - Familiarity and knowledge of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - Essential. - Familiarity with low arousal child-led neuro-affirming approach - Essential. - Patience empathy and a commitment to building a trusting supportive relationship with the child. - Flexible and adaptable able to adjust to the childs needs and familys schedule. - Relevant certifications or qualifications in education special education psychology or related fields Desirable. Job-Related Skills: - Ability to minimise stress and anxiety for both children by utilising a low arousal approach - Essential. - Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with the family and other support systems - Essential - Organisational skills i.e. ability to implement structure strong time management imperative - Essential. - Social play and life skills Essential. - Relationship building skills Essential.
Required Education:
Knowledge and understanding of the unique support needs of a neurodivergent individual Essential.