Special Needs Assistant - East London Schools

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Career progression

Structured work environment

Access to specialized resources

Eastern Cape focus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Special Needs Assistant in East London to support students with diverse learning needs. You will work one-on-one or in small groups, adapting tasks and materials to help each child access the curriculum and participate in school life.

You will collaborate with teachers, therapists and parents to implement effective strategies, promote social and emotional development, and maintain progress records.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children with special needs is highly desirable.
• A qualification in education support, psychology, social work, or a related field is advantageous.
• Patience, empathy and a genuine desire to support children's development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and resourceful in challenging situations.
• Understanding of basic learning theories and behavioural management techniques.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and provide references.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team in East London.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of students.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation pertaining to special education is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to students with special educational needs in classroom settings.
• Assist students with academic tasks, adapting materials and methods as directed by teachers.
• Help students develop social skills, emotional regulation, and independence.
• Support students with physical needs, including mobility, feeding, and personal care, if required.
• Implement behavior management strategies as outlined in individual education plans (IEPs).
• Work collaboratively with teachers, educational psychologists, and other support staff.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and behaviors.
• Facilitate inclusion and participation of students in all school activities within the East London educational community.
• Communicate with parents and guardians to share updates and provide support.
• Ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students under your care.

Skills

Patience

Empathy

Communication

Teamwork

Behavior management

Education

Education support qualification

Psychology degree

Social work degree

Related field qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a network of inclusive educational institutions in East London, Eastern Cape , is seeking compassionate and dedicated Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to support students with diverse learning requirements. This role involves providing one-on-one or small-group assistance to students, helping them to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of various learning disabilities and behavioral needs, coupled with patience and empathy. This is a crucial role in ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students in East London . We are looking for individuals committed to making a positive difference in the lives of young learners, helping them achieve their academic and personal potential. The position requires close collaboration with teachers, therapists, and parents to develop and implement effective support strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to students with special educational needs in classroom settings.
• Assist students with academic tasks, adapting materials and methods as directed by teachers.
• Help students develop social skills, emotional regulation, and independence.
• Support students with physical needs, including mobility, feeding, and personal care, if required.
• Implement behavior management strategies as outlined in individual education plans (IEPs).
• Work collaboratively with teachers, educational psychologists, and other support staff.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and behaviors.
• Facilitate inclusion and participation of students in all school activities within the East London educational community.
• Communicate with parents and guardians to share updates and provide support.
• Ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students under your care.

Requirements

• Previous experience working with children with special needs is highly desirable.
• A qualification in education support, psychology, social work, or a related field is advantageous.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support children's development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and resourceful in challenging situations.
• Understanding of basic learning theories and behavioral management techniques.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and provide references.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team in East London .
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of students.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation pertaining to special education is a plus.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary and the profound satisfaction of making a tangible difference in the lives of students with special needs.
• You will be part of a supportive and inclusive educational community in East London , with opportunities for professional development and training in special education.
• Our client provides a structured work environment with dedicated colleagues and access to specialized resources.
• The position includes regular performance reviews and opportunities for career progression within the education sector.
• We are committed to fostering a positive and empowering work experience for our staff in the Eastern Cape .
• Further details regarding the salary and benefits package will be discussed during the interview process.