Classroom Assistant (Foundation Stage)

Job Title

Classroom Assistant – Reports to: Principal through the class teacher.

Job Purpose

Assist with educational support and care of pupils in designated class or classes, inside or outside classroom.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher in running the class efficiently.
• Support pupils learning by managing the learning environment: clarifying instruction, ensuring equipment use, motivating, reinforcing areas, promoting independent learning, helping pupils concentrate and complete work.
• Participate in classroom activities, including curriculum-related tasks under teacher direction.
• Supervise groups or individuals during activities: talking and listening, library use, ICT, extracurricular activities, etc.
• Provide continuity of adult care: supervising play and cloakroom, hand washing, toileting.
• Maintain confidentiality of school policies, procedures and pupil information.
• Establish supportive relationships with pupils.
• Prepare work for pupils as directed by teacher.
• Set up, clear away and regularly clean equipment.
• Prepare materials for play sessions (e.g., dough, paste, paper, costumes, drama activities).
• Supervise/support administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for ill children, attend to minor cuts and grazes.
• Ensure safe environment for pupils.
• Report any signs or symptoms suggesting a child requires expert or immediate attention.

Administration

• Assist with classroom administration: collecting dinner money, lost property, etc.
• Duplicate written materials, produce charts and displays, record audio‑visual programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.
• Contribute to maintenance of pupil progress records.
• Provide regular feedback to teacher about pupils.

Other Duties

• Attend relevant in‑service training.
• Assist work placement students with practical tasks.
• Perform any other duties assigned by principal/outreach teacher/Authority officer at this level.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Hold minimum of Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in a relevant area from recognised accredited body (certificate or diploma level).
• Have minimum of 6 weeks experience in formal learning environment or placement as part of qualification.
• Or have minimum of 12 months’ experience working in a formal learning environment.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of: health and safety requirements; development needs of children/young people; child protection and safeguarding.
• Evidence of skills: effective planning and organising; ability to follow systems and plans; teamwork; flexibility and creativity for child‑centred experience; effective positive communication.
• Behaviours: build positive supportive relationships; empathy; confidentiality.

Desirable Criteria

• Hold minimum Level 2 passes in English and/or Mathematics or higher‑level qualifications.
• Experience as a Classroom Assistant in primary school.
• Use of digital technologies to assist learning and prepare resources.

Disclosure of Criminal Background

Working with children or young people is regulated activity. Candidates recommended for such post will be required to undergo Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background, and will bear the cost. Details will be provided at pre‑employment stage.

Equality and Diversity

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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