Specialist Support Professional – Vision Impairment (SSP-VI)
Application Deadline: 30/11/2026
Job Details
Location: South East, South West & North West
Salary: £35 to £40 per hour
Sector: higher_ed
Job Description
The SSP-VI works collaboratively with students, academic staff, disability advisers, assistive technology trainers, and other support professionals to remove barriers to learning whilst maintaining the student’s autonomy and independence.
Key Responsibilities
• Provide specialist one-to-one support to Higher Education students with visual impairments in line with DSA recommendations.
• Facilitate equal access to lectures, seminars, tutorials, assessments, placements, and wider university activities.
• Accurately describe and interpret visual information to support learning and participation.
• Promote student independence by developing effective study, organisational, and self-advocacy skills.
• Support students to access learning materials, digital resources, and assistive technologies.
• Liaise with academic staff, disability advisers, and other professionals to implement reasonable adjustments and accessible practices.
• Maintain accurate records, complete required documentation, and adhere to confidentiality, safeguarding, and GDPR requirements.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and maintain up-to-date knowledge of visual impairment and inclusive practice.
Person Specification
Essential Knowledge and Experience
• Experience of supporting individuals with visual impairments.
• Understanding of the social model of disability and inclusive practice.
• Knowledge of the impact of vision impairment within Higher Education settings.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to describe visual information clearly and accurately.
• Ability to work independently and use professional judgement.
• Competent IT skills and experience of accessible technologies.
Desirable
• Experience supporting students in Higher Education.
• Knowledge of DSA-funded support.
• Experience working with braille users.
• Experience supporting students during placements and practical learning activities.
• Knowledge of accessibility legislation and inclusive learning principles.
Qualifications
In accordance with the Department for Education NMH Qualification Matrix (July 2023), SSP-VI staff should hold one of the following:
Essential
One of the following:
• A recognised qualification relating to visual impairment, sensory impairment, rehabilitation, education, disability support, social care, or a closely related field.
• Qualified Teacher of Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (QTVI) status. [gov.uk]
• Degree-level qualification together with substantial professional experience supporting individuals with visual impairments in education or training environments.
Preferred
• Mandatory Qualification in Sensory Impairment (Vision Impairment).
• Rehabilitation Worker for Visual Impairment qualification.
• Specialist training in assistive technology for visually impaired learners.
• Training in braille, tactile graphics, or accessible document production.
Professional Requirements
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students.
• Enhanced DBS check (where required).
• Evidence of ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Ability to travel between Higher Education campuses where required.