Classroom Assistant; Special Educational Specialist Provision

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 or 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 or Education Authority officer.

• Assist the teacher with the support and care of pupil(s) with special educational needs, such as enabling access to the curriculum and attending to personal needs (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 their evaluation, and encourage pupil(s) participation.
• 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 the implementation of behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Assist pupil(s) in moving around school and on and off transport.

• Assist pupil(s) to learn as effectively as possible in both group situations and individually by managing the learning environment. Tasks include:
• Clarifying and explaining instruction.
• Ensuring pupils can use equipment and materials.
• Encouraging and motivating pupils.
• Providing reinforcement and development where required.
• Promoting independence to enhance learning.
• Helping pupils stay on task.
• Meeting physical/medical needs while encouraging independence.
• Be aware of school policies, procedures and confidential issues related to home, pupil, teacher or school work and keep confidences appropriately.
• Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned.
• Prepare and produce appropriate resources to support pupils and care for materials during 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.
• Under the direction of the teacher and following a risk assessment, assist with off‑site activities.
• Provide continuity of adult care, e.g., supervising play and cloakroom activities including hand washing, toileting, etc.
• Administer prescribed medicines and drugs to children who are ill and deal with minor cuts and grazes.
• Ensure, as far as possible, a safe environment for pupils.
• Report to the class teacher any signs or symptoms that may suggest a pupil requires expert or immediate attention.

• Assist with classroom administration.
• Help the class teacher and/or other professionals record pupil progress.
• Contribute to the maintenance of pupil progress records.
• Provide regular feedback about the pupil(s) to the teacher/officer.
• Duplicate written materials and assist with production of charts and displays, record radio and television programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.

• 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 subject to review in light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid and inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which the individual works. Other duties of a similar nature and appropriate to the grade may be assigned from time to time.

In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay due regard for equality legislation at all times.

To view the summary of terms and conditions for this post, .

• You must clearly demonstrate on your application form under each question, how, and to what…