Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)

Education Authority; Ballymoney; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a dedicated Classroom Assistant to support pupils with special educational needs. This role involves assisting teachers in providing educational support, ensuring pupils can access the curriculum, and promoting their independence. The ideal candidate will be compassionate and skilled in managing diverse learning needs, helping create a safe and inclusive environment. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students and fostering their growth, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the educational experience.

Qualifications

• Assist with educational support for pupils with special needs.
• Develop understanding of specific pupil needs and support plans.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with special educational needs in the classroom.
• Assist with classroom administration and pupil progress recording.

Skills

Support for special educational needs

Communication skills

Behavioral management

Confidentiality maintenance

Education

Relevant educational qualifications

Training in special needs education

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs

REPORTS TO: The Principal, through the class teacher

JOB PURPOSE

Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority, assist with the educational support and the care of the pupil(s) with special educational needs who are in the teacher’s care in or outside the classroom.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The precise duties of the post will be determined by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer.

SPECIAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

• Assist the teacher with the support and care of pupil(s) with special educational needs, e.g., enabling access to the curriculum, attending to personal needs including dietary, feeding, toileting, etc.
• Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupil(s) to be supported.
• Assist with authorized programmes (e.g., Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in the evaluation of the support, and encourage pupil participation.
• Contribute to the inclusion of the pupil in mainstream schools under the directions of the class teacher.
• Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties related to pupil disabilities.
• Support in implementing behavioral management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupils in moving around the school and on/off transport.

GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

• Assist pupils to learn effectively both in groups and individually by managing the learning environment, including:

• Clarifying and explaining instructions;
• Ensuring pupils can use equipment and materials;
• Motivating and encouraging pupils;
• Reinforcing or developing areas as needed;
• Promoting independence to enhance learning;
• Helping pupils stay on task;
• Meeting physical/medical needs while encouraging independence.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding home/pupil/teacher/school issues.
• Establish supportive relationships with pupils.
• Prepare resources and materials for support and play sessions.
• Supervise groups or individual pupils during activities, including ICT, extracurricular activities, etc.
• Assist with off-site activities following risk assessments.
• Supervise play, cloakrooms, hand washing, toileting, etc.
• Administer prescribed medicines and deal with minor injuries.
• Ensure a safe environment for pupils.
• Report any signs indicating a pupil needs immediate attention.

ADMINISTRATION

• Assist with classroom administration tasks.
• Help implement systems for recording pupil progress.
• Maintain pupil progress records and provide feedback.
• Assist with duplicating materials, creating charts/displays, and processing resources.

OTHER DUTIES

• Attend in-service training.
• Support work placement students.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority within the post's level.

This job description is subject to review and may include other duties of a similar nature. The post-holder is expected to promote equality and good relations, complying with relevant legislation. For terms and conditions, click here.