At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and care for pupils with special educational needs in a classroom setting.
- Company: Join a supportive educational environment focused on inclusion and growth.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make a difference in students' lives.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and professional development in a dynamic school setting.
- Why this job: Be a vital part of helping students thrive and achieve their potential.
- Qualifications: Level 2 qualification and experience in a learning environment required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
REPORTS TO: The Principal, through the class teacher.
JOB PURPOSE: Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority, assist with the educational support and the care of pupils with special educational needs who are in the teacher’s care.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist the teacher with support and care of pupils with special educational needs, enabling access to the curriculum and attending to personal needs.
- Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupils to be supported.
- Assist with authorised programmes (e.g., Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in evaluation and encourage pupil participation.
- Contribute to inclusion of the pupil in mainstream schools under directions of the class teacher.
- Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to pupil disabilities.
- Support implementation of behavioural management programmes as directed.
- Assist pupils in moving around school and on/off transport.
GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT:
- Clarify and explain instruction; ensure pupils use equipment and materials.
- Assist in motivating and encouraging pupils, reinforcing or developing skills.
- Promote independence and help pupils stay on work.
- Meet physical/medical needs as required while encouraging independence.
- Maintain confidentiality of school policies and sensitive information.
- Establish a supportive relationship with pupils.
- Prepare and produce appropriate resources for pupil support.
- Supervise groups or individuals on specified activities, including ICT and extracurricular activities.
- Assist with off-site activities following risk assessment.
- Provide continuity of adult care during play and cloakroom supervision.
- Administer prescribed medicines and treat minor injuries.
- Ensure a safe environment and report any concerning signs to the class teacher.
ADMINISTRATION:
- Assist classroom administration and recording pupil progress.
- Contribute to maintenance of pupil progress records and provide feedback to the teacher/officer.
- Duplicate written materials, produce charts and displays, catalogue books and resources.
OTHER DUTIES:
- Attend relevant in-service training.
- Assist work placement students with practical tasks.
- Perform other duties assigned by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer at the level of the post.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
- Hold a minimum of a Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from a recognised accredited awarding body.
- Have a minimum of 6 weeks experience in a formal learning environment or through a placement as part of the Level 2 qualification.
- Provide a working knowledge of health and safety requirements, development needs of children/young people, and child protection and safeguarding.
- Demonstrate skills: effective planning and organising, following agreed systems, teamwork, flexibility, positive communication, and child-centred learning support.
- Display core behaviours: build positive relationships, empathy, confidentiality.
DESIRABLE CRITERIA:
- Completed training relevant to the role (e.g., social, emotional and behavioural difficulties, language and communication, ASD, ADHD).
- Hold a minimum of level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics, or higher-level qualifications.
- Specific experience of working with children/young people with special educational needs.
- Experience as a Classroom Assistant in a primary/post-primary school.
- Ability to use digital technologies to assist in learning and resource preparation.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION: The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs) in Dromore employer: Education Authority (Northern Ireland)
As a Classroom Assistant for Special Educational Needs, you will join a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of both students and staff. Our commitment to professional development ensures that you have access to training opportunities that enhance your skills and career progression, all while working in a nurturing environment dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with special educational needs.
Contact Details:
Education Authority (Northern Ireland) Recruitment Team
