JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Classroom Assistant – Additional Special Educational Needs
REPORTS TO: School Principal, through class teacher
JOB PURPOSE
Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer, assist with the educational support and the care of pupils with special educational needs who are in the teacher’s care, in or outside the classroom.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The precise duties will be determined by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer.
ADDITIONAL SPECIAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT
* Undertake more comprehensive or invasive medical/clinical procedures.
* Help pupils with specialist communication skills and/or sensory difficulties access the curriculum.
* Deal with pupils with very challenging behaviour as identified by the Educational Psychology Service as requiring additional provision.
SPECIAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT
* Assist the teacher with support and care of pupils with special educational needs, including enabling access to the curriculum and attending to personal needs.
* Develop understanding of the specific needs of supported pupils.
* Assist with programmes like Education Plan and Care Plan, participate in their evaluation, and encourage pupil participation.
* Contribute to the inclusion of pupils in mainstream classrooms under the teacher's direction.
* Assist with operational and medical difficulties related to pupil disabilities.
* Support behavioral management programmes as directed.
* Assist pupils in moving around school and on/off transport.
GENERAL CLASSROOM SUPPORT
* Assist pupils in learning effectively in groups and individually by managing the learning environment, clarifying instructions, motivating pupils, promoting independence, and helping pupils stay on task.
* Maintain confidentiality and establish supportive relationships.
* Prepare resources, supervise activities, and assist with off-site activities following risk assessments.
* Supervise play and cloakroom routines, including administering medicines and dealing with minor injuries.
* Ensure a safe environment and report any signs indicating a pupil needs urgent or expert attention.
ADMINISTRATION
* Assist with classroom administration and pupil progress recording.
* Provide feedback and support resource preparation.
OTHER DUTIES
* Attend training, assist work placement students, and perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.
This description is subject to review and may include other duties appropriate to the grade. The post-holder is expected to promote good relations and equality of opportunity in accordance with legislation.
Click here to view the terms and conditions.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS
* Clearly demonstrate how you meet each criterion in your application; failure to do so may result in not being shortlisted.
* Meet criteria by the closing date; the assessment stage will verify this.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
Hold either (a) or (b):
* (a) Level 2 qualification in a relevant area plus 6 weeks experience, or
* (b) 12 months’ experience in a formal learning environment.
Knowledge of health and safety, child development, and safeguarding.
Skills include planning, teamwork, flexibility, and specific skills related to supporting pupils with SEN.
Behaviours include effective communication, relationship building, empathy, and confidentiality.
DESIRABLE CRITERIA
* Additional training such as First Aid, Makaton, or Braille; Level 3 qualification.
* Experience with children with SLD/PMLD or in special schools.
* Skills in assistive technology, managing challenging behaviour, and digital learning tools.
DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND
Applicants recommended for appointment will require an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background, which they will bear the cost of.
Further info at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.
APPLICANT GUIDANCE
Click here for guidance notes and benefits of joining the Education Authority.
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer
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