Classroom Assistant. Job in Larne Education & Training Jobs

JOB PURPOSE
Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/board officer assist with the educational support and care of the pupils in a designated class or classes in or outside the classroom.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The precise duties of the post will be determined by the principal.

• CLASSROOM SUPPORT
  Assist the teacher in the efficient running of the class. Assist as required pupils learn as effectively as possible both in group situations and on their own by assisting with the management of the learning environment through:

• clarifying and explaining instruction;
• ensuring the pupils are able to use equipment and materials provided;
• assisting in motivating and encouraging the pupils as required;
• contributing to areas requiring reinforcement or development e.g. language behaviour reading spelling handwriting/presentation etc;
• promoting independent learning;
• helping pupils concentrate on and finish work set.

Participate in classroom activities including involvement with the curriculum where appropriate under the direction of the class teacher/officer. Assume responsibility for supervising groups of children or individual children on specified activities including talking and listening, use of library activities, using ICT, extra curricular activities and other duties. Provide continuity of adult care of e.g. supervising play and cloakrooms including hand washing and toileting. Be aware of school policies procedures and of confidential issues linked to home/pupil/teacher/school work and to keep confidences appropriately. Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned. Prepare work for pupils as directed by and in support of the teacher. Set up, clear away and regularly clean equipment. Prepare material for play sessions e.g. making dough paste, cutting paper, costume preparation, involvement in school dramatic activities etc. Provide supervision/support including the administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for children who are ill and deal with minor cuts and grazes. Ensure as far as possible a safe environment for pupils. Report to the class teacher any signs or symptoms displayed which may suggest that a child requires expert or immediate attention.

• ADMINISTRATION
  Assist with classroom administration e.g. collecting dinner money, lost property etc. Duplicate written materials, assist with production of charts and displays, record radio and television programmes, catalogue and process books and resources. Contribute to the maintenance of pupil progress records. Provide regular feedback about the pupils to the teacher.

OTHER DUTIES
Attend relevant inservice training. Assist work placement students with practical tasks. Such other duties as may be assigned by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer within the level of the post. This job description will be subject to review in light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid and inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which the individual works. Other duties of a similar nature and appropriate to the grade may be assigned from time to time.

In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998) the postholder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay due regard for equality legislation at all times.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
The following are essential criteria which will initially be measured at the shortlisting stage and which may also be further explored during the interview/selection stage. You should therefore make it clear on your application form how and to what extent you meet these criteria. Failure to do so may result in you not being shortlisted.

• Qualifications and Experience
  Essential: Hold either (A) or (B):
  (A) Hold a minimum of a Level 2 (or equivalent)* qualification in a relevant area from a recognised accredited awarding body.
  AND
  Have a minimum of 6 weeks experience which has been gained either through working in a formal learning environment or through a placement completed as part of your level 2 (or equivalent) qualification.
  OR
  (B) Have a minimum of 12 months experience of working in a formal learning environment.
• Knowledge
  Demonstrate a working knowledge of:
  Health and safety requirements
  Development needs of children and/or young people.
  Child protection and safeguarding.
• Skills
  Evidence of the following skills to support child-centred learning and assist with the management of the learning environment:
  Effective planning and organising skills.
  Ability to follow agreed systems and plans.
  Ability to work as part of a team.
  Ability to work flexibly and creatively to help ensure a child-centred learning experience.
  Effective and positive communication skills.
• Behaviours
  Ability to build positive and supportive relationships.
  Empathy
  Confidentiality.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA
Some or all of the desirable criteria may be applied by the Selection Panel in order to determine a manageable pool of candidates. Desirable criteria will be applied in the order listed.

• Qualifications and Experience
  Have a minimum of 3 years employed experience of working as a Classroom Assistant in a primary school.
  Have a minimum of 5 years employed experience of working as a Classroom Assistant in a primary school.
  Have experience of creating, developing or supporting new initiatives or activities within a primary school.
  Hold a minimum of a Level 3 childcare qualification or equivalent.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 defines working directly with children or young people or in specified places as regulated activity. In the event that you are recommended for appointment to a post that involves regulated activity the Education Authority will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background. Please note that you WILL be expected to meet the cost of an Enhanced Disclosure Certificate.

APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES
To view the applicant guidance notes please click here. To learn about the many great benefits of joining the Education Authority click here. The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.