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Job description

Provide 1:1 support for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in a nurturing playgroup environment. Assist children to engage in play-based learning, develop communication, social and independence skills, and participate fully in daily activities. Work closely with the playgroup team and families to create an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment that meets each child's individual needs.

Responsibilities

• Help ensure that the playroom is appropriately laid out before the session commences and is tidied up after the session ends. The needs of children with SEN will be given priority.
• The Assistant also help to ensure good standards of hygiene are followed and that equipment is safe and regularly checked as recommended in DHSSPS guidelines.
• Attend and participate in all staff meetings and assist in planning and preparation is carried out and that the activities offered throughout the session allow the children to experience the full breadth of the curriculum as laid down in Department.
• Carry out regular observations, Individual Educational Plans (IEP’s) and make an assessment of the child or children designated to you by the playgroup leader.
• Engage with parents positively daily to ensure the overall needs of the child is met in line with all the above.
• Help provide and take part in all the group’s activities.
• Take part in special events and group outings.
• Encourage parental involvement.
• Listen to, encourage, enable, stimulate and ensure the safe keeping of the children.
• Attend relevant evening meetings and courses as directed by the leader or committee. Course fees may be considered by the management for approved training.
• Advise the leader of any matter requiring attention. E.g.: concerns about a child, or equipment needing repaired/replaced.
• To liaise with other professionals from outside services and external agencies e.g. Area SENCOs, Pre-school Education Team Teachers/Educational Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech and Language Therapists, etc.
• Keep strictly confidential any personal information regarding the children, their families or other staff which is learnt as part of the job. Such information must not be passed on unless it is in the interest of a child.
• The list of responsibilities above is not exhaustive and the SEN Assistant may be expected to take on other reasonable duties as assigned by the Preschool Playgroup Leader.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• A good understanding of children's individual needs and different learning styles.
• Strong communication and listening skills with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children.
• Knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and inclusive practices.
• Ability to support children's communication, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Calm and confident approach to managing challenging behaviour using positive strategies.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet changing needs throughout the day.
• Good observation and record-keeping skills to monitor progress and share information.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team while following guidance from the SENCO and other professionals.
• Understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and health and safety procedures.
• Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.