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Job description

This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with special educational needs in one of Northern Ireland's leading grammar schools. The post is initially offered on a fixed-term basis linked to pupil need and funding. The College has a strong commitment to retaining high-performing staff where funding and operational requirements permit and, therefore, there may be opportunities for future extension or continued employment. The successful candidate will assist the class teacher/SENCO with the educational support and the care of pupils with special educational needs in or outside the classroom.

Responsibilities

• 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).
• Contribute to the inclusion of the pupils in mainstream school under the direction of the class teacher.
• Support in implementing behavioural management programmes as directed.
• Be aware of school policies, procedures and of confidential issues linked to home/pupil/teacher/school work and to keep confidences appropriately.
• 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.
• Assist with classroom administration and assist the class teacher and/or other professionals with the implementation of the system for recording the pupils’ progress.
• Provide supervision/support including the administration of prescribed medicines and drugs for children who are ill and deal with minor cuts and grazes.
• Ensure 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.
• Establish a supportive relationship with the pupils concerned.
• Assist with operational difficulties and non-invasive medical/clinical difficulties pertaining to the pupils’ disabilities.
• Contribute to the maintenance of the pupils’ progress records and 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.
• Attend relevant in-service training/work placement students with practical tasks.
• Assist as required with extended and specialist schools’ programmes and with summer scheme. Administrative and clerical duties during periods of extended school closure.
• Assist the pupils in moving around school and on and off transport.
• Such other duties as may be assigned by the Principal/SENCO/General Manager within the level of the post.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• NVQ Level 2 in Childcare, Learning Support, Health & Social Care or equivalent qualification AND/OR 12 months paid experience.
• 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.
• Communication skills, including written and oral.

Desirable Skills

• NVQ Level 3 in Children’s Care Learning and Development, or equivalent qualification.
• Evidence of relevant training courses attended in special educational needs.
• 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).
• Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

Further Information

Salary: £29,071 - £30,515 per annum, pro rata. Please see school website (www.thronhillcollege.org.uk) for application pack including application form, monitoring form, job description, person specification, general notes/guidance and school vision and aims. Completed application form and monitoring form to be returned electronically to: thornhillposts144@c2ken.net by 12 noon on Tuesday 20 October 2026.