Classroom Assistant in Magheralin

Reports To: The Principal, through the class teacher.

Job Purpose: Assist with the educational support and care of pupils in designated class(es) under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/board officer, both inside and outside the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Classroom Support: Assist the teacher in the efficient running of the class. Assist pupils to learn effectively both in group situations and on their own by:

• Clarifying and explaining instruction.
• Ensuring pupils can use equipment and materials provided.
• Motivating and encouraging pupils as required.
• Contributing to areas requiring reinforcement such as language, behaviour, reading, spelling, handwriting and presentation.
• Promoting independent learning.
• Helping pupils concentrate on and finish work set.

Administration:

• Assist with classroom administration (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 to the teacher about pupils.

Other Duties:

• Attend relevant in-service training.
• Assist work-placement students with practical tasks.
• Carry out other duties as may be assigned by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer within the level of the post.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential Criteria (shortlisting and interview):

• Minimum Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from a recognised accredited awarding body; qualification must be at Certificate or Diploma level (award level not acceptable).
• Minimum 6 weeks experience gained through working in a formal learning environment or through a placement completed as part of the Level 2 qualification. OR minimum 12 months experience of working in a formal learning environment.

Knowledge:

• Health and safety requirements.
• Development needs of children and/or young people.
• Child protection and safeguarding.

Skills:

• 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 ensure a child-centred learning experience.
• Effective and positive communication skills.

Behaviours:

• Ability to build positive and supportive relationships.
• Empathy.
• Confidentiality.

Desirable Criteria (optional):

• Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from a recognised accredited awarding body.
• Level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics, or higher-level qualifications.
• Additional working experience in a formal learning environment.
• Specific experience of working with children.
• Experience as a Classroom Assistant with pupils in a particular setting (nursery/primary).
• Ability to use digital technologies to assist in learning and the preparation of resources.

Additional Information:

In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay due regard for equality legislation at all times. To access the summary of terms and conditions for this post, contact the Education Authority. Further information can be accessed at NI Direct or the Department of Justice. The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.