Classroom Assistant (Additional Special Educational Needs)

Education Authority; Limavady; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

The Education Authority seeks a Classroom Assistant focused on supporting pupils with special educational needs. Responsibilities include aiding educational support, managing challenging behavior, and administrative tasks related to pupil care. Ideal candidates will possess a Level 2 qualification or relevant experience, and skills in communication and empathy are essential.

Qualifications

• Level 2 qualification or significant experience in a learning environment.
• Understanding of health and safety, child development, and safeguarding.
• Demonstrate effective communication and empathy.

Responsibilities

• Assist with educational support and care for pupils with special educational needs.
• Help pupils access the curriculum and ensure their personal needs are attended to.
• Support with classroom administration and record pupils' progress.

Skills

Planning

Teamwork

Flexibility

Experience with SEN needs

Education

Level 2 qualification in a relevant area

6 weeks experience in a learning environment

12 months' experience in a learning environment

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Classroom Assistant – Additional Special Educational Needs

REPORTS TO: School Principal, through class teacher

JOB PURPOSE: Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer, assist with the educational support and care of pupils with special educational needs in or outside the classroom.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The specific duties will be determined by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer.

ADDITIONAL SPECIAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT:

• Undertake more comprehensive or invasive medical/clinical procedures.
• Help pupils with specialist communication skills and/or sensory difficulties access the curriculum.
• Deal with pupils with very challenging behaviour as identified by the Educational Psychology Service as requiring additional provision.

SPECIAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT:

• Assist the teacher with the support and care of pupils with special educational needs, including enabling access to the curriculum and attending to personal needs.
• Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupils supported.
• Assist with authorised programmes (e.g., Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in evaluation, and encourage pupil participation.
• Contribute to the inclusion of pupils in mainstream classrooms under the teacher's guidance.
• Support with operational and medical difficulties related to pupils' disabilities.
• Support behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupils in moving around the school and on/off transport.

GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT:

• Assist pupils in learning effectively through managing the learning environment, explaining instructions, motivating pupils, and promoting independence.
• Maintain confidentiality and establish supportive relationships with pupils.
• Prepare resources and supervise activities, including off-site activities following risk assessments.
• Provide supervision/support, including administering prescribed medicines and dealing with minor injuries.
• Ensure a safe environment and report any signs indicating a pupil needs immediate attention.

ADMINISTRATION:

• Assist with classroom administration and record keeping of pupils' progress.
• Provide feedback and support the production of materials and displays.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Attend in-service training and assist work placement students.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.

This job description is subject to review and should be regarded as a guideline. The post-holder is expected to promote equality and good relations in accordance with legislation.

For more details, view the terms and conditions.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS: Demonstrate clearly on your application how you meet each criterion. Shortlisting is based on the application form.

SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

Qualifications: Level 2 qualification in a relevant area or 6 weeks experience in a learning environment; or 12 months' experience in a learning environment.

Knowledge: Understanding of health and safety, child development, child protection, and safeguarding.

Skills: Planning, teamwork, flexibility, and experience with SEN needs.

Behaviours: Effective communication, relationship building, empathy, confidentiality.

SECTION 2 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA:

Additional qualifications, experience with specific SEN needs, and skills such as using assistive technology.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND: Enhanced Disclosure required for regulated activity. Costs are the applicant's responsibility.

Further info at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.

APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES: Available via links.

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer