JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: 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 the pupil(s) with special educational needs who 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(s) 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:
o Clarifying and explaining instruction;
o Ensuring the pupils are able to use equipment and materials provided;
o Assisting in motivating and encouraging the pupil(s) as required;
o Assisting in areas requiring reinforcement or development;
o Promoting the independence of pupils to enhance learning;
o Helping pupil(s) stay on work set;
o Meeting physical/medical needs as required whilst encouraging independence.
* Be aware of school policies, procedures, and confidential issues linked 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.
* Assist with off-site activities under the direction of the teacher and following an appropriate risk assessment.
* Provide continuity of adult care, e.g., supervising play and cloakrooms, including hand washing, toileting, 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 a safe environment for pupils as far as possible.
* Report any signs or symptoms displayed by a pupil that may require expert or immediate attention to the class teacher.
ADMINISTRATION
* Assist with classroom administration.
* Assist the class teacher and/or other professionals with the implementation of the system for recording the pupil(s) progress.
* Contribute to the maintenance of pupil(s) progress records.
* Provide regular feedback about the pupil(s) to the teacher/officer.
* Duplicate written materials, assist with production of charts and displays, record radio and television programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.
OTHER DUTIES
* Attend relevant in-service training.
* Assist work placement students with practical tasks.
* Perform other duties as may be assigned by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer within the level of the post.
This job description will be reviewed as needed and is intended as a guideline. Other duties of a similar nature and appropriate to the grade may be assigned. In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity, and adhere to equality legislation at all times. For the terms and conditions, please click here.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS
* You must demonstrate on your application form how you meet each criterion; failure to do so may result in not being shortlisted.
* You must meet the criteria by the closing date for applications.
* The selection process will measure the criteria outlined in the table below.
* The panel reserves the right to shortlist only those applicants who most strongly meet the criteria.
* In case of many applications, the panel may apply desirable criteria in order, which should be demonstrated on your application.
SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
The following are essential criteria measured at shortlisting and possibly during interview:
Factor Essential Criteria Method of Assessment
Qualifications/Professional Membership Hold a minimum of a Level 2 childcare qualification as approved by EA (a list is available on the EA website) Application Form
Experience Minimum of six months’ consistent experience working with children with special educational needs in a primary school Application Form
Skills / Abilities Experience supporting children with communication or language difficulties and supporting children with challenging behaviours Application Form
SECTION 2 - ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
Measured during interview:
Factor Essential Criteria Method of Assessment
Knowledge Understanding of classroom assistant requirements, child development, health and safety Interview
Skills / Abilities Flexibility, creativity, interpersonal skills, teamwork, planning, and organization Interview
Values Orientation Alignment with the school’s values and ethos, information available on the school website Interview
SECTION 3 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA
May be considered to narrow down candidates:
Factor Desirable Criteria Method of Assessment
Experience Six months’ experience as a classroom assistant with children with SEN Application Form
Training Completion of SEN-related professional training in language, communication, or dysregulation Application Form
DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND
Involves ‘regulated activity’; an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background will be required if appointed. The candidate will bear the cost. Further info at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.
APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES
See the guidance notes here. To learn about benefits, click here.
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer
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