Special Needs Childcare Assistant - Durban Area

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 69,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Exposure to therapies

Direct impact on children's lives

Supportive team

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a compassionate Special Needs Childcare Assistant to provide one-on-one support and facilitate inclusive activities for children with diverse needs. You will work closely with therapists, educators, and parents to implement individualized care plans and promote holistic development.

The role requires patience, empathy, and a proactive approach, with a focus on safety, dignity, and empowering every child to reach their full potential.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, developmental delays) is essential.
• A qualification in Childcare, Special Needs Education, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting children with disabilities.
• Strong understanding of child development and behavioral management techniques for children with special needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to undergo thorough background checks, including police clearance and relevant clearances for working with children.
• Physical ability to assist children with mobility and personal care.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be based in or near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Adaptability and resilience in managing challenging situations.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to children with special needs, assisting with daily living activities as required.
• Implement individualized education and therapy plans under the guidance of specialists.
• Facilitate social interaction and inclusive play among children of varying abilities.
• Assist children with personal care, mobility, and feeding as needed, maintaining dignity and respect.
• Monitor children's progress and behavior, reporting observations to the care team and parents.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment, adhering to all health and safety protocols.
• Engage children in structured and unstructured activities designed to promote development.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, and other support staff.
• Communicate sensitively and effectively with parents and guardians about their child's needs and progress.

Skills

Special needs care

Child development knowledge

Communication skills

Education

Childcare qualification

Special Needs Education qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organization focused on providing specialized support for children with diverse needs in **Durban**, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Special Needs Childcare Assistant. This vital role involves providing one-on-one support and facilitating inclusive activities for children requiring additional assistance. The successful candidate will work closely with therapists, educators, and parents to implement individualized care plans and promote the holistic development of each child. This is a hands-on position requiring patience, empathy, and a proactive approach to supporting children facing developmental, physical, or emotional challenges. The role is based in **Durban** and requires a commitment to creating a safe, encouraging, and empowering environment where every child can reach their full potential. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children and is eager to contribute to a supportive and professional team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to children with special needs, assisting with daily living activities as required.
• Implement individualized education and therapy plans under the guidance of specialists.
• Facilitate social interaction and inclusive play among children of varying abilities.
• Assist children with personal care, mobility, and feeding as needed, maintaining dignity and respect.
• Monitor children's progress and behavior, reporting observations to the care team and parents.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment, adhering to all health and safety protocols.
• Engage children in structured and unstructured activities designed to promote development.
• Assist with feeding, hygiene, and other personal care needs, ensuring comfort and well-being.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, and other support staff.
• Communicate sensitively and effectively with parents and guardians about their child's needs and progress.

Requirements

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, developmental delays) is essential.
• A qualification in Childcare, Special Needs Education, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting children with disabilities.
• Strong understanding of child development and behavioral management techniques for children with special needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to undergo thorough background checks, including a police clearance and relevant clearances for working with children.
• Physical ability to assist children with mobility and personal care.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be based in or near **Durban**, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Adaptability and resilience in managing challenging situations.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate or contract fee.
• Meaningful work experience making a direct impact on children's lives.
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and supportive team.
• Access to professional development and training relevant to special needs care.
• Exposure to various therapeutic approaches and interventions.
• Contribution to a vital community service.