Work for Us

PLEASE NOTE THAT RECRUITMENT FOR THE 2009-10 SESSION HAS CLOSED BUT WE ARE HAPPY TO KEEP APPLICATIONS ON FILE FOR NEXT YEAR

On Track Sessional Tutor Application Information

On Track: supporting college and university transitions

Hundreds of adult learners progress to university each year, bringing with them a wide range of skills that enable them to succeed at degree level. Nevertheless, university study differs from college or workplace learning and this can worry students and pose certain challenges. The On Track programme addresses these challenges and enables students to enhance their success.

The On Track programme

On Track offers a short pre-entry programme to adult learners about to make, or thinking about making, the transition to degree-level study. The programme consists of a combination of study skills sessions and transition support, and is delivered by undergraduate and postgraduate students who have themselves made a successful transition to degree-level study. The following list of topics gives a flavour of the areas covered (N.B. all classroom materials are provided for you):

Programme delivery

Tutors deliver the programme in a variety of formats depending on the needs and availability of learners. Possibilities include:

• The classic model: The full programme delivered in six weekly two-hour sessions
• The two-stage model: decision-making support and an introduction to university life in the autumn term, with subject-specific study skills in the spring after university choices have been made
• The fast-track model: the full programme delivered over one or two days
• The customised model: A reduced programme delivering selected sessions identified as particular priorities by learners
• On Track workshops: one-off sessions on specific themes (e.g. essay writing) open to any adult learner

The tutor role

• The On Track programme is tailored to different subject areas, so subject background will be a consideration in the selection process. After recruitment, we try to match tutors to their subject area where possible.
• The role is sessional so tutors can fit On Track around their life and studies. Tutors will be asked for their availability at the start of every term and we will offer work on this basis. Tutors will be offered work when we book groups but there is no obligation to accept any particular assignment.
• Participation in training is compulsory.
• Tutors are sent out in teams of two, of which at least one tutor will have significant experience in leading class groups.
• New tutors will usually begin at the basic rate of payment. Senior tutors (who take the lead in planning and facilitating sessions) are paid at a higher rate. All tutors can become senior tutors, although in practice it is usually postgraduate tutors or undergraduates with prior teaching experience who ascend to this role.
• Tutors are paid the equivalent of one additional hour’s classroom contact time per group in recognition of time taken for preparation. The On Track office will guide tutors on the areas to be covered with individual groups, following which the two tutors, led by the senior tutor, should produce a lesson plan. Payment for preparation time is dependent on production of this lesson plan.
• On Track is delivered across 21 colleges in the west of Scotland, plus workplace learning centres, universities and other learning providers as demand requires. Travel expenses are paid.
• On Track provides study skills and transitions support to learners; it is not an academic teaching programme or an information, advice and guidance service.

Post profile: On Track sessional tutor

Responsible to:

• On Track Programme Coordinator

Main duties:

• Complete On Track training programme
• Adhere to guidance from Programme Coordinator on areas to be covered with each group
• Plan individual sessions with co-tutor (led by senior tutor) using materials providedProduce lesson plan for each session (led by senior tutor)
• Collect required materials from On Track office
• Attend a pre-start meeting with the Programme Coordinator, co-tutor and the college contact staff member where appropriate
• Deliver On Track sessions to groups of learners
• Report back to On Track office on progress after first session with a new group (by email or telephone)
• Ensure that all participating students complete the appropriate paperwork/ online forms e.g. registration form and baseline questionnaire
• Keep an accurate record of student attendance
• Attend feedback sessions and contribute to the end of programme evaluation
• Maintain regular contact with the Programme Coordinator and Development Assistant
• Inform the Programme Coordinator of any problems encountered in the course of your employment with On Track

Senior tutors only

• Lead co-tutor in planning and delivery of On Track sessions

Downloads

Sessional Tutor Application Form

166 Kb

07/10/09 15:37