Education Authority Northern Ireland
Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)
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Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)
Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs
Job Title
Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs
About the Role
- Reports to: The Principal (via the class teacher/outreach teacher/Education Authority)
- Job Purpose: Assist with the educational support and welfare of pupils with special educational needs (SEN), both inside and outside the classroom, under the direction of teaching staff or the Education Authority.
Job Responsibilities
1. Special Classroom Support
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Support and care for pupils with SEN, ensuring access to curriculum, personal needs (dietary requirements, toileting, etc.)
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Develop understanding of each pupil’s needs and needs
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Assist with authorised programmes (Education Plan, Care Plan) and evaluate support
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Promote inclusion of pupils in mainstream settings
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Support behavioural management programmes as directed
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Assist pupils with school transitions, mobility, and transport
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Provide basic medical/clinical support and manage operational difficulties
2. General Classroom Support
- Aid pupils in effective learning both independently and in groups by:
- Clarifying instructions
- Ensuring proper use of resources and materials
- Motivating and supporting pupils as needed
- Reinforcing learning areas requiring development
- Encouraging independence and focus on tasks
- Adhere to school policies, confidentiality protocols, and maintain supportive relationships with pupils
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Prepare resources and manage toys/equipment for play sessions
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Supervise group/individual activities in line with teacher direction
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Assist with off-site activities (following risk assessments)
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Provide continuity in adult supervision, including cloakrooms, handwashing, toileting
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Administer prescribed medicines and minor first aid
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Maintain a safe environment and report health concerns to teachers
3. Administrative Support
- Assist with classroom administration and progress recording systems
- Contribute to pupil progress tracking, feedback, and documentation
- Duplicate materials, create charts/displays, and manage resources
4. Other Duties
- Attend relevant in-service training
- Support work placement students
- Perform other duties as assigned by principal/teacher/Education Authority
Job Specifications
Section 1: Essential Criteria
Applicants must meet ONE of the following:
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Option 1:
- Minimum Level 2 or equivalent qualification (Certificate or Diploma only) in a relevant field
- 6 weeks’ experience in formal learning or placement
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Option 2:
- 12 months’ experience in any formal learning environment
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Core Knowledge Required:
- Health and safety requirements
- Development needs of children and young people
- Child protection and safeguarding
Core Skills Required:
- Effective planning and organisation
- Ability to follow systems and plans
- Teamwork and flexibility
- Positive communication skills
Core Behaviours Required:
- Ability to build supportive relationships
- Empathy for pupils
- Confidentiality
Section 2: Desirable Criteria (Applied if large applicant pool)
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Qualifications/Experience:
- Training in SEN, ASD, ADHD, social-emotional-behavioural needs
- Level 3 qualification in a related field
- Level 2 passes in English/Maths (or higher)
- 2+ years’ experience in primary school SEN support
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Specific experience with children/youths requiring special statement support
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Ability to use digital tools to assist learning
Additional Notes
- Must be prepared for an Enhanced Disclosure Check at pre-employment (costs covered by applicant)
- Compliance with [Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998] regarding equality, human rights, and oppression
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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