Special Needs Childcare Assistant - Durban Coastal Area

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 83,000 - 165,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly rate

Flexible schedule

Supportive environment

Training & development

Long-term engagement

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a compassionate Special Needs Childcare Assistant for a part-time role supporting a child with developmental needs. The role involves 20–25 hours per week, flexible days, and travel within Durban for appointments.

You will work under family guidance and possibly with external therapists to implement tailored strategies. The ideal candidate demonstrates patience, empathy, and a proactive approach to creating a structured yet flexible environment that

Qualifications

• Experience with children with special needs essential.
• Preferred qualifications in special education or related fields.
• Patience, empathy and nurturing personality required.
• Strong understanding of child development in special needs contexts.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow and implement care plans precisely.
• Reliable, punctual and highly organized.
• Valid driver's license and own transport.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for a child with special needs, ensuring safety.
• Assist in implementing individualized education and therapy plans under parent/therapist guidance.
• Engage the child in structured play, educational activities, and life skills development.
• Support personal care routines as required.
• Facilitate social interaction and communication skill development.
• Maintain a consistent and positive behavior management approach.
• Keep detailed records of activities, progress, and observed changes.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding the child's day and progress.
• Transport the child to appointments, therapy sessions or activities as needed.
• Collaborate with parents and professionals to ensure cohesive care.

Skills

Patience

Empathy

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Reliability

Education

Special Education Certification

Child Psychology Certification

Related Field Degree

Tools

First Aid Certification

CPR Certification

Driver's License

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent family residing in the Durban, KwaZulu-Natal coastal area, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Special Needs Childcare Assistant. This part-time position is crucial for supporting the development and daily care of a bright, energetic child with specific learning and developmental needs (diagnosed condition will be disclosed to shortlisted candidates). The ideal candidate will possess a gentle demeanor, immense patience, and a proactive approach to creating a structured yet flexible environment conducive to the child's growth. You will work under the guidance of the parents and potentially external therapists, implementing tailored strategies and activities. This role requires a deep understanding of various developmental challenges and a commitment to fostering independence, social skills, and emotional well-being. The position involves approximately 20-25 hours per week, with flexibility on specific days to be discussed. The family is located in a beautiful, accessible part of Durban and seeks someone who can become a trusted and integral part of their child's support system. You must be comfortable working closely with the family, respecting their routines and care philosophies. A genuine passion for making a difference in the life of a child with special needs is paramount. The ability to engage the child in both therapeutic activities and enriching playtime is key. Travel within Durban may be required for appointments or therapeutic sessions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for a child with special needs, ensuring their safety and well-being.


• Assist in implementing individualized education and therapy plans under parent/therapist guidance.


• Engage the child in structured play, educational activities, and life skills development.


• Support the child with personal care routines as required.


• Facilitate social interaction and communication skill development.


• Maintain a consistent and positive behavior management approach.


• Keep detailed records of activities, progress, and any observed changes in the child's condition.


• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents regarding the child's day and development.


• Transport the child to appointments, therapy sessions, or specific activities if needed.


• Collaborate with parents and other professionals involved in the child's care to ensure a cohesive support system.

Requirements

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (e.g., Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities) is essential.


• Relevant qualifications or certifications in special education, child psychology, or a related field are highly preferred.


• Exceptional patience, empathy, and a nurturing personality.


• Strong understanding of child development, particularly in the context of special needs.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to follow instructions and implement specific care plans accurately.


• Reliable, punctual, and highly organized.


• Valid driver's license and own reliable transport.


• First Aid and CPR certification.


• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check, including a police clearance.


• Proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of isiZulu or other local languages is advantageous.

Benefits

• This part-time position offers a competitive hourly rate, reflecting the specialized skills required.


• It provides the flexibility of a reduced work schedule, allowing for work-life balance.


• Our client is committed to providing a supportive and respectful work environment.


• Opportunities for training and professional development in special needs care will be offered.


• This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced caregiver to make a significant impact in Durban.


• The position offers a stable, ongoing engagement with a family that deeply values their caregiver's contribution.