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Job description

Classroom Assistants (SEN) (Term-time/fixed to 30/6/24 with possible extension) (32.5hpw) Under the direction of the class teacher/SENCO, assist with the educational support and the care of pupils with special educational needs in or outside the classroom..

Responsibilities

• The precise duties of the post will be determined by the Principal/SEN teacher/General Manager. Special Classroom Support, General Classroom Support, Admin and Other Duties (as detailed in the job description
• Special Classroom Support: Assist the teacher with the support and care of the pupil with special educational needs e.g. enable access to the curriculum, attend to personal needs etc.;
• Develop an understanding of the specific needs of the pupils to be supported;
• Assist with authorised programmes (eg Education Plan, Care Plan), participate in the evaluation of the support and encourage the pupils' participation in such programmes.
• Contribute to the inclusion of the pupils in mainstream school under the direction of the class teacher;
• Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining t the pupils' difficulties.
• Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed; Assist the pupils in moving around school and on and off transport.
• General Classroom Support: Assist the pupils to learn as effectively as possible both in group situations and on their own by assisting with the management of the learning environment through:
• Clarifying and explaining instruction; Ensuring the pupils is able to use equipment and materials provided; Assisting in motivating and encouraging the pupils as required; Assisting in areas requiring reinforcement or development;
• Promoting the independence of the pupils to enhance learning; Helping the pupils stay on work set; Meeting physical/medical needs as required whilst encouraging independence;
• Be aware of school policies, procedures and of confidential issues linked to home/pupil/teacher/school work and to keep confidences appropriately;
• Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned; Prepare and produce appropriate resources to support the pupils;
• Supervise groups of pupils, or individual pupils on specified activities including talking and listening, using ICT, extra-curricular activities, and other duties, as directed by the class/SENCO;
• Under the direction of the teacher, and following an appropriate risk assessment, assist with off-site activities;
• Provide supervision/support including the administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for 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 displayed which may suggest that pupil(s) require(s) expert or immediate attention.
• Administration: Assist with classroom administration;
• Assist the class teacher and/or other professionals with the implementation of the system for recording the pupils' progress.
• Contribute to the maintenance of the pupils' progress records.
• Provide regular feedback about the pupils to the teacher/SENCO;
• Duplicate written materials, assist with production of charts and displays, record radio and television programmes, catalogue and process books and resources.
• Other Duties: Attend relevant in-service training; Assist work placement students with practical tasks;
• Assist as required with extended and specialist schools programmes and with summer scheme; General administrative and clerical duties during periods of extended school closure;
• Such other duties as may be assigned by the Principal/SENCO/General Manager within the level of the post.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Qualifications and Training: NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in a relevant childcare qualification and 11 minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths and English Language
• Experience and Knowledge: Experience of working in a school setting with children with Special Educational Needs Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum
• Skills: Good communication skills, both written and oral Good interpersonal skills Listening Skills

Desirable Skills

• Qualifications and Training i NVQ Level 3 in Children's Care Learning and Development or equivalent qualification ii evidence of relevant training courses attended in special educational needs iii have a 1st aid certificate iv competent in ICT skills
• Knowledge and Experience A minimum of 6 months' paid experience within the last 2 years of working in a school setting with children with Special Educational Needs Experience of working with SEBD pupils (social, emotional and behavioural difficulties

Further Information

Application packs and Equal Opportunities monitoring form available on the Vacancies section on school website www.thornhillcollege.org.uk Salary: £22,723-£23893 per annum pro-rata