Disability and Dyslexia Student Support Workers provide 1:1 support to a disabled student who is studying at the University of Sheffield. Below are some examples of what is required of an Exam Support Worker. 

Working in various roles as Reader, Scribe or Prompt. This involves working 1:1 with a student during their exam. 

Reader: An Exam Reader, reads the exam question aloud to the student. The Reader will also read the written answer back to the student so they can listen and correct any details before submitting their answer. This role requires subject knowledge for technical language and clear spoken pronunciation.

Scribe: An Exam Scribe (or sometimes called an Amanuensis), writes the exam answer that the student dictates to them. This role requires clear handwriting, strong spelling and grammar skills, and subject knowledge to handle any technical language. Often, the Scribe also acts as a Reader, who reads the exam questions to the student.

Prompt: The role of an exam prompt is to help with time-keeping and helping the student remain on task in an exam. An Exam Prompt does not need to have subject knowledge, but will need to understand the structure of the exam and be able to work closely with the student and notice non-verbal cues. This role requires a general understanding of disabled awareness. 

• Studying in final year UG or Postgraduate level at the University of Sheffield. Essential

• Good Subject knowledge within your field of study. Essential

• Fluency in English, proficient in grammar and clear spoken pronunciation. Essential

• Ability to transcribe dictated information with speed and precision. Essential

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and to act in a professional discrete manner with students. Essential

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, patience and enthusiasm. Essential
• Disability awareness, especially an understanding of the needs of students with various disabilities. For example; hearing or visual impairments, Autism Spectrum conditions or students with reduced mobility, (further training on this will be provided during induction). Desirable
• Previous experience of working with people with disabilities or Specific Learning Differences (SpLD). Desirable

How to Apply:

1. Please complete the Exam Work Expression of Interest 2025/26

2. By completing the expression of interest form your university email address will be added to our mailing list. Please note, this is not a guarantee of work. Our support requirements depend on referrals and the needs of the students we support.

If a suitable vacancy is available we will contact our mailing list and assign work from the respondents. This work is offered on a casual basis and may be withdrawn if no longer required by the student being supported. 

All support workers need to complete induction training and a Right to Work check before starting work. 

The Support Worker Service sits within the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service at the University of Sheffield