Overview
Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs. Reports to the Principal, through the class teacher. Job purpose: Under the direction of the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority, assist with the educational support and the care of pupil(s) with special educational needs who are in the teacher’s care in or outside the classroom.
Responsibilities
* Special Classroom Support: assist the teacher with the support and care of pupil(s) with special educational needs; 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); assist with authorised programmes (e.g. Education Plan, Care Plan); participate in the evaluation of the support and encourage pupil participation; contribute to the inclusion of the pupil in mainstream schools; assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to pupil disabilities; support in implementing behavioural management programmes; assist pupil(s) in moving around school and on and off transport.
* General Classroom Support: assist pupil(s) learn as effectively as possible in group and individual settings; clarify and explain instruction; ensure pupils can use equipment and materials; motivate and encourage pupils; support areas requiring reinforcement or development; promote independence; help pupils stay on task; meet physical/medical needs as required while encouraging independence.
* Administration: assist with classroom administration; support the implementation of the system for recording pupil progress; contribute to maintenance of progress records; provide regular feedback about pupil progress; duplicate written materials and assist with preparation of charts, displays, and resources.
* Other Duties: attend relevant in-service training; assist work placement students with practical tasks; perform other duties as assigned within the level of the post; ensure a safe environment for pupils and report signs or symptoms requiring expert attention.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria
* Hold a minimum of Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from a recognised awarding body; qualification must be at Certificate or Diploma level.
* Have a minimum of 6 weeks experience in a formal learning environment or through a placement completed as part of Level 2 qualification, or 12 months’ experience in a formal learning environment.
* Working knowledge of health and safety requirements; development needs of children and/or young people; child protection and safeguarding.
* Effective planning and organizing skills; ability to follow agreed systems and plans; ability to work as part of a team; ability to work flexibly and creatively to support child-centred learning; effective and positive communication skills; ability to build positive and supportive relationships; empathy; confidentiality.
Desirable Criteria
* Training relevant to the role (e.g. social, emotional and behavioural difficulties; language and communication; ASD; ADHD).
* Level 3 qualification in a relevant area; level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics or higher qualifications; experience of working with pupils with special educational needs; experience as a Classroom Assistant in post-primary settings; ability to use digital technologies to assist learning and resource preparation.
Disclosure of Criminal Background
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 defines working directly with children as ‘regulated activity’. If appointed to a post involving regulated activity, an enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background will be undertaken. The applicant will be responsible for the cost of the Enhanced Disclosure Certificate. Further information can be accessed at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.
Equality and Terms
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Note: This description is provided for illustration of typical duties and may be subject to change in light of circumstances. It is not intended to be rigid or inflexible and may include other duties of a similar nature.
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