Classroom Assistant (SEN)

Thornhill College; Derry/Londonderry; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A local educational institution in Derry/Londonderry seeks a dedicated support staff member to assist in educational support for students with special needs. The role involves collaboration with teachers, aiding in individual learning, and providing care. Candidates must hold NVQ Level 2 in Childcare and demonstrate strong empathy and communication skills. This is a temporary role with a pay range of £13.62 - £15.73 per hour, requiring 32.5 hours per week during term-time.

Qualifications

• Essential NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in a relevant childcare qualification.
• Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Mathematics and English Language.
• Experience of working in a school setting with children with Special Educational Needs.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher with the support and care of pupils with special educational needs.
• Contribute to the inclusion of pupils in mainstream education.
• Administer prescribed medicines and maintain a safe environment.

Skills

NVQ Level 2 in Childcare

Experience with Special Education Needs (SEN)

Good communication skills

Empathy and patience

First aid certification

Competency in computer skills

Education

Minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above

NVQ Level III in Children’s Care Learning

Job description

Under the direction of the class teacher/SENCO assist with the educational support and the care of pupils with special educational needs in or outside the classroom. Please see employer website for full job details & person specification.

Responsibilities

• Special Classroom Support: Assist the teacher with the support and care of the pupil with special educational needs e.g. enable access to the curriculum, attend to personal needs etc;
• Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupils to be supported;
• Assist with authorised programmes (e.g. Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in the evaluation of the support and encourage the pupils’ participation in such programmes;
• Contribute to the inclusion of the pupils in mainstream school under the direction of the class teacher;
• Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to the pupils’ disabilities;
• Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed;
• Assist the pupils in moving around school and on and off transport;
• General Classroom Support: Assist the pupils to learn as effectively as possible both in group situations and on their own by assisting with the management of the learning environment through:
• Clarifying and explaining instruction; Ensuring the pupils is able to use equipment and materials provided; Assisting in motivating and encouraging the pupils as required; Assisting in areas requiring reinforcement or development;
• Promoting the independence of the pupils to enhance learning; Helping the pupils stay on work set; Meeting physical/medical needs as required whilst encouraging independence;
• Be aware of school policies, procedures and of confidential issues linked to home/pupil/teacher/school work and to keep confidences appropriately; 2.3 Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned;
• Prepare and produce appropriate resources to support the pupils;
• Supervise groups of pupils, or individual pupils on specified activities including talking and listening, using ICT, extra-curricular activities, and other duties, as directed by the class teacher/SENCO;
• Under the direction of the teacher, and following an appropriate risk assessment, assist with off-site activities;
• Provide supervision/support including the administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for children who are ill and deal with minor cuts and grazes;
• Ensure as far as possible a safe environment for pupils;
• Report to the class teacher any signs or symptoms displayed which may suggest that pupil(s) require(s) expert or immediate attention;
• Administration: Assist with classroom administration; Assist the class teacher and/or other professionals with the implementation of the system for recording the pupils’ progress;
• Contribute to the maintenance of the pupils’ progress records; Provide regular feedback about the pupils to the teacher/SENCO;
• Duplicate written materials, assist with production of charts and displays, record radio and television programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.
• Other Duties: Attend relevant in-service training; Assist work placement students with practical tasks;
• Assist as required with extended and specialist schools programmes and with summer scheme; General administrative and clerical duties during periods of extended school closure;
• Such other duties as may be assigned by the Principal/SENCO/General Manager within the level of the post.

Skills and Qualifications

• It is essential that applicants have: NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in a relevant childcare qualification. Minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language.
• Experience of working in a school setting with children with Special Educational Needs. Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
• Good communication skills, both written and oral. Good interpersonal skills. Listening skills.
• Patient, sympathetic and able to show empathy; and ability to respect confidentiality.
• NVQ Level III in Children’s Care Learning and Development, or equivalent qualification.
• Evidence of relevant training courses attended in special educational needs.
• Have a first aid certificate. Are competent in computer skills.
• A minimum of 6 months’ paid experience within the last 2 years of working in a school setting with children with SEN. Experience of working with SEBD pupils (social, emotional, behavioural difficulties).

Further Information

Please note 2 posts and creation of a casual waiting list. Interviews will be held on Friday 20th February 2026. Please note that salary is pro rata (32.5hpw/term-time) and is paid accordingly. Completed application form and monitoring form to be returned electronically to [e-mail] by 12noon on Friday 13th February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview to be held on Friday 20th February 2026.

Job Sector Education and Training, Childcare and Social Work Area Derry or Londonderry Location Derry/Londonderry, Culmore Road Salary £13.62 - £15.73 per hour No. vacancies 2 Contract Type Temporary Weekly hours 32.5 Published date 23/01/2026 Closing date 13/02/2026 Worktime 8.30am - 3.45pm (with 45 min lunch break), to be confirmed