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- Tasks: Support teachers and assist pupils with special educational needs in a caring environment.
- Company: Join a supportive educational team dedicated to inclusivity and growth.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and professional development in a dynamic school setting.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of helping students thrive and succeed in their education.
- Qualifications: Level 2 qualification or relevant experience in a learning environment required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Job Description Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs. Reports to the Principal via the class teacher.
Responsibilities
- Assist the teacher with support and care of pupils with special educational needs, enabling access to curriculum and attending to personal needs such as dietary, feeding and toileting.
- Develop an understanding of the specific needs of each pupil and assist with authorised programmes (Education Plan, Care Plan).
- Support behavioural management programmes and contribute to the inclusion of pupils in mainstream schools.
- Assist pupils in moving around school, on and off transport, and with operational medical/clinical difficulties.
- Help pupils learn effectively in group and independent settings, clarifying instruction, ensuring equipment and materials are used, motivating, encouraging, and promoting independence.
- Maintain confidentiality, be aware of school policies and procedures, and establish supportive relationships with pupils.
- Prepare and produce appropriate resources, manage play material and supervise groups or individuals on activities, including ICT and extracurricular activities.
- Assist with off-site activities following a risk assessment and provide continuity of adult care such as supervising play and cloakrooms.
- Administer prescribed medicines, deal with minor injuries, and ensure a safe environment for pupils.
- Report any signs or symptoms requiring expert or immediate attention to the class teacher.
- Assist with classroom administration, record progress, and provide regular feedback to the teacher or officer.
- Duplicate written materials, produce charts and displays, record programmes, and catalogue resources.
- Attend relevant in-service training and support work-placement students with practical tasks.
Qualifications and Experience
- Minimum Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from an accredited awarding body, plus at least six weeks of experience in a formal learning environment or a placement completed as part of that qualification; OR At least 12 months of experience working in a formal learning environment.
- Working knowledge of health and safety requirements, child development, child protection and safeguarding.
- Effective planning and organising skills, ability to follow agreed systems, teamwork, flexibility, and positive communication skills.
- Ability to build positive and supportive relationships, empathy, and maintain confidentiality.
Equal Opportunities
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Classroom Assistant Register (Special Educational Needs) - Ards & North Down Area employer: Education Authority (Northern Ireland)
Contact Detail:
Education Authority (Northern Ireland) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Classroom Assistant Register (Special Educational Needs) - Ards & North Down Area
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with special educational needs. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to special educational needs. Think about how you would support pupils with different challenges and be ready to share examples from your experience. We want to see your passion and understanding!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along any relevant resources or materials you've created that demonstrate your ability to support learning. This could be anything from lesson plans to behaviour management strategies. It’s all about proving you’re the right fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Classroom Assistant Register (Special Educational Needs) - Ards & North Down Area
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can specifically support pupils with special educational needs, so don’t hold back on those relevant examples!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of pupils, so share your motivation and commitment to supporting their learning journey.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your sentences are easy to read. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at Education Authority (Northern Ireland)
✨Know Your Pupils
Before the interview, take some time to research and understand the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs. Familiarise yourself with common challenges they face and think about how you can support them effectively. This will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in a formal learning environment. Prepare specific examples of how you've supported pupils in the past, especially those with special needs. Highlight any relevant training or qualifications you have, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to talk about your ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with teachers, parents, and other professionals to support pupils. This will illustrate your understanding of the importance of a supportive learning environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting pupils with special educational needs or how they handle behavioural management. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.