4. Administrative & Pastoral Responsibilities

• Register attendance and supervise pupils when required
• Organise staff training, meetings, and extra-curricular activities
• Work flexibly within hour-duty requirements—up to 195 days/node-error, typically 1265 hours/year, with a minimum 30-minute rest break (varies for nursery schools)

Summary of Working Conditions

• 3 to 5 sessions per week (as per Special Schools allowance structure)
• Regular availability on staff meetings, late meetings, school events (including after-school supervision as scheduled)
• Enhanced Criminal Record Check Required (due to regulated activity under Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Order 2007)
• School support the cost of DBS application post-offer

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

(Assessed via application, with key points further explored in interview)

Qualifications & Registration

• Hold a valid teaching qualification recognised for grant-aided schools in Northern Ireland before starting
• Registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI)

Experience

• At least 3 years of teaching experience in educational settings
• 1 year of paid experience teaching pupils with severe and complex needs
• demonstrable skill in staff wellbeing support, including mentoring new teachers

Knowledge & Competencies

• Proven expertise in inclusive teaching methods for SEN/D, using assessment, differentiation and evidence-based strategies
• Strong understanding of Northern Ireland Curriculum frameworks, SEND policies, and safeguarding protocols
• In-depth knowledge of positive behaviour management (e.g., Restorative Practice)
• Ability to collaborate with multi-agency professionals (e.g., occupational therapists, specialist tutors)

Values & Approach

• Aligns with the school’s vision, core values, and ethos (See: [www.rosstulla.co.uk (values/ethos page)])
• Demonstrate strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

Desirable Criteria

(Recommended for selection process if applicants are balanced with essential criteria)

• Additional specialist experience:
  • 1 further year teaching in a special school setting
  • Experience in a middle management role within education (e.g., Head of Department, Pastoral Lead)
  • Demonstrated ability to coordinate specialist areas such as music, IT, or play-based learning across the curriculum

Selection Process

1. Shortlisting – Based on essential criteria from applications
   • Applicants must clearly map how they meet each requirement on their form.
2. Interview – Assesses attitude, practice, and ability to contribute to the school’s ethos.
   • Includes demonstrations relevant to SEN teaching, well-being support, and leadership.
3. Dismissibility may consider additional desirable criteria during selection if deemed necessary.

This job description remains flexible, adapting to school priorities/planning.

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and recognise the diversity of perspectives essential for our school community.