Classroom Assistant (Additional Special Educational Needs)

Education Authority; Newry; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational authority is seeking a dedicated Special Educational Needs Assistant to support students with varying needs. This role involves working closely with teachers and pupils, providing tailored assistance and ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment. If you have a passion for education and supporting students, we invite you to join our team.

Qualifications

• Ability to assist students with varying educational needs and disabilities.
• Experience in dealing with challenging behavior management.
• Understanding of medical needs related to disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with educational support and care of pupils with special needs.
• Develop understanding of specific pupil needs and adapt support accordingly.
• Maintain confidentiality and supportive relationships with pupils.

Skills

Communication skills

Adaptability

Behavioral management

Education

Experience with special educational needs

Job description

JOB PURPOSE

Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer, assist with the educational support and the 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.

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 authorized programmes (e.g., Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in their evaluation, and encourage pupil participation.
• Contribute to the inclusion of pupils in mainstream classrooms under the teacher's direction.
• Assist with operational and medical difficulties related to pupils' disabilities.
• Support behavioral management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupils in moving around the school and on transport.

GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

• Assist pupils to learn effectively through managing the learning environment, clarifying instructions, motivating pupils, and encouraging independence.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding home, pupil, teacher, and school matters.
• Establish supportive relationships with pupils.
• Prepare resources and supervise activities, including off-site activities following risk assessments.
• Support with medical needs, including administering prescribed medicines and dealing with minor injuries.
• Ensure a safe environment for pupils.
• Report any signs requiring immediate attention to the teacher.

ADMINISTRATION

• Assist with classroom administration and record-keeping of pupil progress.
• Provide feedback to the teacher and help produce educational materials.

OTHER DUTIES

• Attend in-service training.
• Assist work placement students with practical tasks.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Principal within the scope of the post.