Education Authority Northern Ireland
Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)
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Classroom Assistant – Special Educational Needs
Reporting 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 care of pupils with special educational needs, both in and outside the classroom.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
(The precise duties will be determined by the principal/outreach teacher/Education Authority officer.)
Special Classroom Support
- Assist the teacher with support, care, and curriculum access for pupils with SEN, including addressing:
- Dietary, feeding, and toileting needs.
- Non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties related to disabilities.
- Authorised programmes (e.g., Education Plan, Care Plan), including:
- Evaluation of support.
- Encouraging pupil participation.
- Assist in mainstream inclusion as directed.
- Implement behavioural management programmes.
- Support pupils with movement around school and transport (onc/off-site).
- Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupils cared for.
General Classroom Support
- Enhance classroom learning through:
- Clarifying and repeating instructions.
- Assisting with equipment/materials.
- Motivating and encouraging pupils.
- Reinforcing/developing skills where needed.
- Promoting pupil independence.
- Adhere to school policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding).
- Build supportive relationships with pupils.
- Prepare and maintain learning resources (e.g., visual supports, play materials).
- Supervise groups/individual pupils during:
- Structured lessons.
- Extra-curricular activities.
- ICT usage.
- Risk-assessed off-site activities.
- Supervise during break times (e.g., cloakrooms, handwashing, toileting).
- Administer prescribed medicines for unwell pupils; attend to minor injuries.
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Safety & Emergency Procedures
- Ensure a safe environment for pupils.
- Report any concerns requiring immediate/expert attention.
Administration
- Assist with classroom record-keeping, including:
- Progress documentation.
- Interviews with carers/teachers.
- Duplicate written materials, produce aids (e.g., charts, displays), and transcribe resources.
Other Duties
- Attend in-service training.
- Support work placement students.
- Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned.
Person Specification
Notes to Applicants
You must clearly demonstrate how/why you meet each criterion in your application—failure to do so may result in non-shortlisting. Essential + desirable criteria must be justified.
Section 1: Essential Criteria
(Assessed at shortlisting + interview)
Qualifications & Experience
(Option 1 OR Option 2 required)
✅ Option 1:
- Hold a Level 2 (Certificate/Diploma) qualification in an accredited learning/support role.
- With a minimum of 6 weeks’ relevant experience (e.g., placement or formal setting).
✅ Option 2:
- 12+ months’ experience in formal learning/support roles.
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Core Knowledge
- Understand:
- Health and Safety laws/application.
- Child development (ages 0-16+) needs.
- Child protection & safeguarding (NI legal framework).
Skills
- Effective planning/organising; adherence to agreed systems.
- Ability to work independently/flexibly and collaborate.
- Strong teamwork and creative problem-solving.
- Excellent communication.
Core Behaviours
- Build positive/supportive relationships.
- Empathy.
- Confidentiality (abiding by Section 75, Northern Ireland Act 1998).
Section 2: Desirable Criteria
(May be applied to filter shortlisted applicants)
Qualifications & Experience
- Relevant specialised training (e.g., ASD, ADHD, speech language).
- Level 3 qualification in a learning/support discipline.
- Grade C or higher in English/Maths (or equivalent).
- Additional formal learning experience (if applicable).
- Specific experience:
- Working with children who have SEN/disabilities.
- Supporting pupils in alternative/special provisions/nursery.
Digital Skills
- Ability to use digital resources for child-centred learning.
Additional Considerations
- Enhanced DBS check required (applicant cost applies).
- Protects educational equality and upholds good relations as per legislation.
For terms & conditions: Click here Applicant guidance notes: Click here
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