Educational Assistant - Special Needs Childcare

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 100,000 - 167,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit is seeking an Educational Assistant to support children with special needs within childcare programs. You will work under the guidance of teachers and specialists to provide individualized assistance, help implement educational plans, manage behavioral challenges, and foster an inclusive learning atmosphere.

This role blends direct support with hybrid work components. Ideal candidates have experience with children, preferably those with special needs, and a background

Qualifications

• Experience working with children, preferably those with special educational needs.
• Patience, empathy and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one or small group support to children with special needs.
• Assist in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavior management plans.
• Help children develop academic, social, and emotional skills.
• Monitor children's progress and report observations to the supervising teacher or specialist.
• Adapt learning materials and activities to meet the specific needs of each child.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive environment where all children feel valued and encouraged.

Skills

Experience with children

Empathy and patience

Teamwork

Education

Education background in education/psychology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a dedicated Educational Assistant to support children with special needs within their childcare programs in Nelspruit . In this critical role, you will work under the guidance of special education teachers and child development specialists to provide individualized assistance to children requiring extra support. You will help implement educational plans, manage behavioral challenges, and foster an inclusive and encouraging learning atmosphere. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children with diverse learning needs, blending direct support with flexible, hybrid work components.

Key Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one or small group support to children with special needs as directed by educators. Assist in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavior management plans. Help children develop academic, social, and emotional skills. Monitor children's progress and report observations to the supervising teacher or specialist. Adapt learning materials and activities to meet the specific needs of each child. Foster an inclusive and supportive environment where all children feel valued and encouraged.

Requirements

Experience working with children, preferably those with special educational needs. A background in education, psychology, or a related field is advantageous. Patience, empathy, and excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team. Strong observation skills and the capacity to document progress. Willingness to adapt to hybrid work requirements, potentially including remote administrative tasks.

Benefits

Contract position with competitive monthly compensation. Opportunity to gain specialized experience in special needs childcare. Work with a supportive team dedicated to inclusive education. Potential for hybrid work flexibility. Make a significant positive impact on children's lives.