Classroom Assistant in Portadown

Reports to: The Principal, through the class teacher

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.

Responsibilities

• 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:

• 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 in-service 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.

Essential Criteria

• Hold a minimum of a Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from a recognised accredited awarding body. (Qualification must be at Certificate or Diploma level.)
• 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.
• Have a minimum of 12 months’ experience of working in a formal learning environment.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of:

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

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 team.
• Ability to work flexibly and creatively to help ensure a child-centred learning experience.
• Effective and positive communication skills.

Behavioural competencies:

• Ability to build positive and supportive relationships.
• Empathy.
• Confidentiality.
• Show a commitment to the school ethos and values.
• Enthusiastic and Motivated.

Desirable Criteria

• Hold a minimum of level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics, or higher-level qualifications.
• Have a minimum of 2 years additional working experience in a formal learning environment.
• Specific experience of working with a child/children with special educational needs (SEN).
• Knowledge of literacy programmes and/or numeracy interventions.
• Experience of working as a Classroom Assistant with pupils in an early years setting i.e. nursery to primary four.
• Ability to use digital technologies to assist in learning and the preparation of resources.
• Previous experience supporting behaviour management strategies.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to assist with morning clubs and afterschool clubs as required.

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. The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Disclosure of Criminal Background: If appointed to a post that involves ‘regulated activity’, the Education Authority will undertake an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background and you will be expected to meet the cost.