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Job description

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. Please see employer website for full job details & person specification.

Responsibilities

• 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 (e.g. 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 to the pupils’ disabilities;
• 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; 2.3 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 teacher/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

• It is essential that applicants have: NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in a relevant childcare qualification. Minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language.
• Experience of working in a school setting with children with Special Educational Needs. Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
• Good communication skills, both written and oral. Good interpersonal skills. Listening skills.
• Patient, sympathetic and able to show empathy; and Ability to respect confidentiality.

Desirable Skills

• NVQ Level III in Children’s Care Learning and Development, or equivalent qualification.
• Evidence of relevant training courses attended in special educational needs.
• Have a first aid certificate. Are competent in computer skills.
• A minimum of 6 months’ paid experience within the last 2 years of working in a school setting with children with SEN. Experience of working with SEBD pupils (social, emotional, behavioural difficulties).

Further Information

Please note 2 posts and creation of a casual waiting list. Interviews will be held on Friday 20th February 2026. Please note that salary is pro rata (32.5hpw/term-time) and is paid accordingly. Completed application form and monitoring form to be returned electronically to thornhillposts144@c2ken.net by 12noon on Friday 13th February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview to be held on Friday 20th February 2026