Learner Support Fellow

The Center for Holistic Schools Global (CHOLI-S), a Harvard Innovation Labs-incubated social enterprise, builds Counselling and Learner Support Systems in schools across Zambia and sub-Saharan Africa, working with school leaders and teachers to establish lasting counselling structures, social and emotional learning assessment, and staff development.

CHOLI-S is recruiting two Learner Support Fellows to work alongside teachers in partner schools, supporting learners who need additional help to access and participate fully in the classroom. The role focuses on practical, day-to-day support for learners with special educational needs, within an inclusive whole-school approach.

This is a deliberately entry-level fellowship for recent graduates who are ready to learn on the job, with supervision, training, and structure provided throughout. Successful candidates are placed in a partner school and supported by the CHOLI-S technical team; placement schools are confirmed with candidates during recruitment.

A Pathway to a Permanent Role

• The fellowship is designed as an entry route into permanent employment
• As partner schools establish their learner support systems, they take on full-time learner support staff
• Fellows who perform strongly in their placement are the first candidates considered for these roles
• The programme is aimed at people who want to build a career in inclusive education, not just complete a placement

Position Details

• Position: Learner Support Fellow
• Engagement type: Fellowship (graduate entry-level)
• Category: Education & Training
• Location: Eastern and Lusaka Provinces
• Duration: 6 months, 5 days per week
• Closing date: 10/11/2026

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day classroom and small-group support to learners with special educational needs
• Work with teachers to adapt materials, activities, and instructions so that all learners can participate
• Support the identification and screening of learners who may need additional help, and refer appropriately
• Assist in developing, implementing, and reviewing individual learner support plans
• Keep clear, confidential records of support provided and learner progress
• Support communication with parents and guardians about their child's learning and support needs
• Contribute to teacher workshops and to school-wide inclusive practice
• Maintain confidentiality and safeguarding standards in all work with learners

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma in Special Education (required)
• Graduated within the last two years, or have not yet held formal employment — this position is reserved for candidates entering the workforce
• Patience, warmth, and the ability to build trust with learners who find school difficult
• Clear written and spoken communication, and comfort with basic record-keeping
• Sound judgement, discretion, and a genuine commitment to learner safeguarding
• Available to be physically present at the placement school for 4 days per week over the 6-month fellowship period

Added Advantage

• A degree in Special Education, Education, Psychology, or a related field
• Practicum, teaching practice, or volunteer experience in an inclusive or special education setting
• Familiarity with Zambian Sign Language, Braille, or other accessibility supports

What We Offer

• Structured supervision from CHOLI-S counselling and technical staff
• Practical training in inclusive education, learner screening, and support planning
• A certificate of completion
• A genuine pathway to a permanent learner support role in the placement school

How to Apply

Candidates should prepare a cover letter, a CV with at least two recent referees, and copies of all relevant qualifications. Use the Apply button on this page to submit your application. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

CHOLI-S is committed to child safeguarding. All staff are subject to background checks and must sign and adhere to the organisation's safeguarding policy.