Job Title
Teacher – Special
Reports To
Principal
Professional Duties
* Exercise general professional duties in any school under the direction of the principal or board.
* Exercise particular duties as directed by the principal or board.
* Planning: prepare courses and lessons; teach pupils according to their educational needs; assess, record and report on development, progress and attainment.
* General: promote the progress and well‑being of pupils; provide advice and guidance; communicate with pupils, parents and external partners; participate in meetings.
* Assessment/Reporting: contribute to oral and written assessments, reports and references.
* Staff Development: participate in staff development schemes; review teaching methods; pursue professional development; advise and cooperate with colleagues.
* Discipline/Health and Safety: maintain order, discipline and safety; participate in relevant meetings.
* Public Examinations: prepare pupils for examinations; record and report assessments; supervise examinations.
* Review and Development of Management Activities: contribute to the selection and professional development of other teachers; coordinate or manage other teachers; participate in administrative tasks.
* Other duties: attend assemblies; register attendance; supervise pupils; perform tasks as directed by the principal or board.
* Hours: full‑time teacher available 195 days per year (maximum 190 teaching days), 1,265 hours of work per year, with breaks as specified.
* Staff cover: supervise and teach pupils where the assigned teacher is unavailable, following enrolment guidelines.
Essential Criteria
* Hold a teaching qualification recognised for grant‑aided schools in Northern Ireland.
* Minimum 6 years’ demonstrable experience using effective classroom strategies in a special school.
* Experience in developing positive learning relationships with pupils.
* Experience working with professionals to meet students’ needs.
* Experience with specialist equipment, facilities or skills for children with Special Educational Needs.
* Experience using digital media/technology to enhance teaching and learning.
* Registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) before taking up the post.
* Meet all pre‑employment checks.
Additional Essential Criteria (Interview/Selection Stage)
* Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
* Knowledge of Safeguarding and Child Protection policy/practice.
* Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice.
* Knowledge of current assessment methods for pupils with Special Educational Needs.
* Knowledge of positive behaviour promotion strategies.
* Knowledge of IT systems and digital tools.
* Effective teaching and classroom management skills.
* Ability to provide an inclusive learning environment.
* Initiative, problem‑solving and flexibility.
* Continual professional growth and collaboration with pupils, colleagues, parents and the community.
* Alignment with the school's values and ethos.
Desirable Criteria
* Minimum 2 years of leading or managing a whole school curricular area or school team.
* Experience in Early Years Foundation practice within a special school.
* Experience with language programmes (e.g. Makaton).
* Current Team Teach certificate.
Disclosures and EEO Statement
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Applicants may be required to provide an Enhanced Disclosure Certificate for regulated activity. The cost of this certificate will be the applicant’s responsibility.
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