Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs) (2 Posts)

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

Job summary

A leading educational authority in Northern Ireland is seeking a Classroom Assistant for Special Educational Needs. The role involves providing support and care to pupils with special needs, assisting in their educational development, and ensuring a safe learning environment. Candidates should be compassionate, motivated, and able to work closely with teachers and pupils. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of students.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with special educational needs in and outside the classroom.
• Assist with classroom administration and record-keeping of pupil progress.

Skills

Support and Care

Communication

Motivation

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 authorised 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 pertaining to pupil disabilities.
• Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupils in moving around the school and on and off transport.

GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

• Assist pupils to learn effectively both in group situations and individually by managing the learning environment, including explaining instructions, ensuring the use of equipment and materials, motivating pupils, and promoting independence.
• Be aware of school policies, procedures, and confidential issues related to home, pupil, teacher, and school work, maintaining confidentiality.
• Establish supportive relationships with pupils.
• Prepare and produce resources to support pupils and care for materials for play sessions.
• Supervise groups or individual pupils during activities, including extracurricular and ICT activities, as directed.
• Assist with off-site activities following appropriate risk assessments.
• Provide continuity of care, supervise play, cloakrooms, toileting, and handle minor injuries.
• Ensure a safe environment for pupils and report any signs indicating a pupil needs immediate attention.

ADMINISTRATION

• Assist with classroom administration and record-keeping of pupil progress.
• Provide feedback about pupils to the teacher or officer.
• Assist in producing charts, displays, and processing resources.

OTHER DUTIES

• Attend training and assist 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 appropriate to the grade. The post-holder is expected to promote equality and good relations in accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998). For terms and conditions, click here.