UNDERGRADUATE STUDIO ASSISTANT

JOB OVERVIEW

At London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS), we are committed to supporting all students in their academic and practical studies. UK students in Higher Education receive support through Disabled Students' Allowances, and all LCDS students have access to the Learning Support Coordinator. Given the practical nature of our undergraduate course, we aim to enhance our study skills and learning support provision by developing new ways to support practice-based learning in the studio.

This role focuses on supporting disabled students in the studio setting, particularly in their dance practices. Additionally, the assistant will provide general support to the wider student cohort, including those new to dance practice and those recovering from injuries.

PAY RATE & CONTRACT TERMS

PAY RATE

The rate of pay for this position is £13.92 per hour.

Holiday pay is calculated at 12.07% of your earnings. This will be paid monthly alongside your earnings.

CONTRACT TERMS

This is a part-time, casual contract. There is likely to be between two to three classes per day, between Monday to Friday. Typical working hours are 09:00/09:30 - 17:30/18:00, depending on class schedules.

CLOSING DATE

The application closing date is Monday 21 July 2025 at 12:00pm (noon). We reserve the right to close applications early depending on the volume of applications we receive and so we advise it is better to apply early.

For an informal chat about this role to answer any questions you may have before applying, please email Jeannie Steele, Head of Learning and Teaching.

INTERVIEW DATES

We anticipate that interviews will be conducted on Friday 01 August 2025 either in person at The Place or remotely via Microsoft Teams (or similar platform as necessary). Interview dates may be subject to change.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge and understanding of different dance practices and how these are taught in a higher education context.
• Understanding of basic safeguarding/safe touch principles.
• Awareness of confidentiality requirements and the need for discretion/tact.
• Ability to demonstrate good general safe dance practice knowledge.

SKILLS

• Ability to identify students who may require additional support.
• Understanding and ability to break down class material or give alternatives.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Educated to degree level in dance.
• Experience of working with students of all abilities and backgrounds.

ATTRIBUTES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Ability to create positive relationships with and be supportive to teachers and students alike.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

KNOWLEDGE

• In-depth knowledge and experience of all dance practices taught at London Contemporary Dance School.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience and understanding of working with students with Specific Learning Differences, who are neurodiverse or who are physically disabled.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

STUDIO SUPPORT

• Assist first-year undergraduate students in engaging and understanding practical dance training in a higher education setting.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Attend training, professional development and meetings as required.

WORK WITH FACULTY TO:

• Support students in the implementation of specific individual feedback from instructors.
• Assist students with Learning Agreements and monitor their engagement in the studio
• Help injured students remain engaged in the studio setting.
• Support student in differentiating or modifying when needed.
• Take attendance and support Unit Leaders in assisting students who face participation barriers.
• In exceptional cases, cover a class if a teacher is unavailable (only if you are comfortable and confident leading a session).
• Contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
• Respond to medical or other emergencies by alerting a qualified First Aider and knowing the locations of first aid kits.
• Serve as a positive role model for students and collaborate professionally with faculty.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks assigned by the Unit Leader.

ADVOCACY AND LIAISON

• Direct interested individuals or organisations to LCDS as appropriate.
• Maintain professional connections with faculty, musicians, teaching assistants, and administrative staff.
• Collaborate with staff across The Place’s programmes when necessary

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with evacuation procedures if required.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety policies, particularly in alignment with The Place’s Safeguarding Policy.

HEADER PHOTO CREDIT

Wilton's Triple Bill | 2025 | Photo by Rocio Chacon