My interview with Janet Waters

What is your role in college?
“I have two roles; I’m a learning support assistant and also a literacy support tutor.”

What sort of help is available for students?
“I can help students with their spelling, handwriting, give them tips about taking notes, help them to get organised. I usually only see a student half an hour a week; so I help them to help their selves, give them strategies for practicing at home.”

On average how many students do you see a week?
“It varies but, usually I have about 25 come to me, not all attend. Some might be ill some might forget, some might even pretend to forget, *laughs*. But if they get stuck during the week sometimes they email there coursework to me, and I can check it through. But in total about 30 because I sometimes put students in the same group.”

Do you think there are students who need help but don’t ask for it?
“Lots, I think there are a lot of students who need help and don’t ask for it. For example a student could simply try to avoid doing things they find difficult.”

Do you have advice for students who may be too worried to see a member of additional support?
“Well, don’t be worried because I’m friendly and approachable, and not scary. Some students could feel intimidated by staff and were certainly not here to judge people, support means your doing the work with a bit of back up. And besides everything is confidential, parents don’t even have to know.”

What do you like about your job?
“I enjoy listening to students, and when students come to me I usually get to know them. It’s good to see students grow confidence.”