Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs) – Job Description
Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs) – Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
JOB PURPOSE
Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority, assist with the educational support and the care of the pupil(s) with special educational needs who is/are in the teacher’s care in or outside the classroom.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The precise duties of the post will be determined by the principal/outreach teacher/ Education Authority officer.
Special Classroom Support
* Assist the teacher with the support and care of pupil(s) with special educational needs, e.g. enable access to the curriculum, attend to personal needs including dietary, feeding, toileting, etc.
* Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupil(s) to be supported.
* Assist with authorised programmes (e.g. Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in the evaluation of the support and encourage pupil participation in such programmes.
* Contribute to the inclusion of the pupil in mainstream schools under the directions of the class teacher.
* Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to pupil(s) disabilities.
* Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed.
* Assist pupil(s) in moving around school and on and off transport.
General Classroom Support
* Assist pupil(s) 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 pupil(s) as required; assisting in areas requiring reinforcement or development; promoting the independence of pupils to enhance learning; helping pupil(s) stay on work set; meeting physical/medical needs as required whilst encouraging independence.
* Be aware of school policies, procedures and confidential issues related to home/pupil/teacher/school work and keep confidences appropriately.
* Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned.
* Prepare and produce appropriate resources to support pupil(s) and take care of material for play sessions.
* Supervise groups of pupils or individual pupils on specified activities including talking and listening, using ICT, extracurricular activities, and other duties as directed by the class teacher/officer.
* Under the direction of the teacher, and following an appropriate risk assessment, assist with off-site activities.
* Provide continuity of adult care including supervising play and cloakrooms, hand washing, toileting, etc.
* Provide supervision or support including the administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for children who are ill and deal with minor injuries.
* Ensure as far as possible a safe environment for pupils.
* Report to the class teacher any signs or symptoms suggesting a pupil requires expert or immediate attention.
Administration
* Assist with classroom administration.
* Assist the class teacher and/or other professionals with the implementation of the system for recording pupil progress.
* Contribute to the maintenance of pupil progress records.
* Provide regular feedback about the pupil to the teacher/officer.
* Duplicate written materials, assist with production of charts and displays, record programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.
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.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria (Section 1)
* 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. Award level is not acceptable.
* Have a minimum of 6 weeks experience gained in a formal learning environment or through a placement as part of Level 2 qualification.
* OR Have a minimum of 12 months’ experience of working in a formal learning environment.
Core Knowledge
* The requirements of a Classroom Assistant (special educational needs)
* Child development issues
* Health and safety requirements, relevant to the role
* Evidence of how your experience and approach to work reflect the school's values/ethos
Skills
* Ability to work flexibly and creatively to support child-centered learning
* Highly effective interpersonal and communication skills
* Proven teamwork and collaborative skills
* Effective planning and organizing skills to ensure work is completed on time
* Working knowledge of information technology systems including Microsoft Word and Outlook and/or C2K schools IT systems
Desirable Criteria
* Have a minimum of one year’s experience working with a child/children with special educational needs
* Have a minimum of six months’ experience as a Classroom Assistant with a child/children with special educational needs
Disclosure of Criminal Background
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 defines working directly with children or young people as regulated activity. If appointed to a post involving regulated activity, an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background will be undertaken, and you will be required to meet the cost of the Enhanced Disclosure Certificate.
Further information can be accessed at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.
Applicant Guidance
To view applicant guidance notes, click here. To learn about benefits of joining the Education Authority, click here.
Equal Opportunities
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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