Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs) x 3

Education Authority; Downpatrick; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The Education Authority is seeking a Classroom Assistant for Special Educational Needs to support pupils in their educational journey. This role involves assisting with personal care, implementing educational plans, and fostering an inclusive environment. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and experience working with children, particularly those with special needs.

Qualifications

• Minimum of six months’ experience working with children.
• Knowledge of Classroom Assistant requirements for special educational needs.
• Ability to work flexibly and creatively.

Responsibilities

• Assist with educational support and care of pupils with special educational needs.
• Help implement systems for recording pupil progress.
• Provide feedback about pupils to the teacher.

Skills

Knowledge of IT systems

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

5 GCSEs at Grade C or above

Level 2 childcare qualification approved by the EA

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., enable access to the curriculum, attend 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(s) participation in such programmes.
• 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(s) disabilities.
• Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupil(s) in moving around school and on and off transport.

GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

• Assist pupil(s) learn effectively both in group situations and on their own by managing the learning environment through:
• Clarifying and explaining instructions
• Ensuring pupils can use equipment and materials provided
• Motivating and encouraging pupils as required
• Reinforcing or developing areas as needed
• Promoting independence to enhance learning
• Helping pupils stay on task
• Meeting physical/medical needs while encouraging independence
• Be aware of school policies, procedures, and confidential issues related to home/pupil/teacher/school work, maintaining confidentiality appropriately.
• Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils.
• Prepare and produce resources to support pupils and take care of materials for play sessions.
• Supervise groups or individual pupils in activities such as talking and listening, using ICT, extracurricular activities, and other duties as directed.
• Assist with off-site activities under the teacher's direction and following risk assessments.
• Provide continuity of care, including supervising play, cloakrooms, hand washing, toileting, etc.
• Support the administration of prescribed medicines and deal with minor injuries.
• Ensure a safe environment for pupils.
• Report any signs or symptoms that may require urgent attention.

ADMINISTRATION

• Assist with classroom administration.
• Help implement systems for recording pupil progress.
• Maintain pupil progress records.
• Provide feedback about pupils to the teacher/officer.
• Duplicate materials, assist with charts and displays, and manage resources.

OTHER DUTIES

• Attend relevant training.
• 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 should be regarded as providing guidelines. Other duties of a similar nature may be assigned. The post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity, and adhere to equality legislation at all times. For more details, view the terms and conditions here.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS

• Demonstrate clearly on your application how you meet each criterion; failure to do so may result in not being shortlisted.
• Ensure you meet the criteria by the closing date.
• Understanding when criteria are measured is outlined in the table below.
• Shortlisting is based on the information provided in your application.
• The panel may shortlist only those most strongly meeting the criteria.
• Desirable criteria may be used to narrow down candidates if needed, in the order listed.

SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Measured at shortlisting and possibly during interview:

• Qualifications/Professional Membership: Hold at least 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above or higher.
• Experience: Minimum of six months’ experience working with children.
• Skills/Abilities: Knowledge of IT systems including Word and Outlook.

SECTION 2 - ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Measured during interview:

• Knowledge of Classroom Assistant requirements for special educational needs.
• Ability to work flexibly and creatively, with effective interpersonal and communication skills.
• Alignment with the school’s values and ethos.

SECTION 3 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA

May be used to shortlist candidates:

• Experience with children with special educational needs.
• Experience as a Classroom Assistant in a school.
• Level 2 childcare qualification approved by the EA.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

Working with children involves 'regulated activity'. An Enhanced Disclosure will be required if appointed. The applicant bears the cost.

Further info at NI Direct or Department of Justice.

APPLICANT GUIDANCE

Guidance notes here. To learn about benefits, click here.

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer