Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)

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 or Education Authority, assist with educational support and care of pupils with special educational needs in or outside the classroom.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Special Classroom Support

• Assist the teacher with support and care of pupil(s), including access to the curriculum, personal needs such as dietary, feeding, toileting.
• Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupil(s) to be supported.
• Assist with authorised programmes (Education Plan, Care Plan), evaluate the support and encourage pupil participation.
• Contribute to the inclusion of the pupil in mainstream schools under the teacher’s directions.
• Assist with operational and non‑invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to pupil(s) disabilities.
• Support the implementation of behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupils in moving around school and on/off transport.

General Classroom Support

• Assist pupils to learn effectively in group and individually by clarifying instruction, ensuring use of equipment, motivating, encouraging, and reinforcing learning.
• Promote independence and help pupils stay on task while meeting physical or medical needs as required.
• Maintain awareness of school policies, procedures and confidentiality. Keep confidences appropriately.
• Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils.
• Prepare and produce resources to support pupils and manage materials for play sessions.
• Supervise groups or individual pupils on specified activities, including ICT, extra‑curricular activities, and other duties.
• Assist with off‑site activities following the teacher’s direction and a risk assessment.
• Provide continuity of adult care, including supervising play, cloakroom, hand washing and toileting.
• Administer prescribed medicines and drugs for ill children and treat minor cuts and grazes.
• Ensure a safe environment for pupils.
• Report to the teacher any signs or symptoms that may require expert or immediate attention.

Administration

• Assist with classroom administration.
• Help implement the system for recording pupil progress.
• Maintain pupil progress records.
• Provide regular feedback to the teacher or officer.
• Duplicate printed materials, produce charts and displays, and catalogue resources.

Other Duties

• Attend relevant in‑service training.
• Support work‑placement students with practical tasks.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Education and Experience

• Minimum Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification from a recognised accrediting body at Certificate or Diploma level.
• Minimum 6 weeks experience in a formal learning environment, or 12 months of experience.

Core Knowledge

• Health and safety requirements.
• Child development needs.
• Child protection and safeguarding.

Skills

• Effective planning and organising skills.
• Ability to follow agreed systems and plans.
• Teamworking and flexible, creative support for child‑centred learning.
• Positive communication skills.

Behavioural Attributes

• Build positive supportive relationships.
• Show empathy.
• Maintain confidentiality.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

• Additional training related to social, emotional or behavioural difficulties, language and communication, ASD, ADHD.
• Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification.
• Level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics or higher.
• Additional experience in a formal learning environment and/or with pupils with special educational needs.
• Experience as a classroom assistant in post‑primary or specialist provision attached to mainstream/special school.
• Digital technology skills to support learning and resource preparation.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

The Education Authority will require an Enhanced Disclosure Certificate for regulated activities. Applicants will be responsible for the cost of this certificate.

EEO STATEMENT

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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