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Job description

Under the direction of the Leader, the S.E.N. 1:1 Assistant will assist with the educational support and the care of the pupil with special educational needs who is in the settings care in the pre-school.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support to a child with additional needs under the direction of the Pre-School Leader.
• Support the child to participate in daily activities, play experiences and learning opportunities.
• Encourage the child's communication, social interaction and development through play.
• Help the child understand and follow simple instructions.
• Encourage independence and support the child with daily routines.
• Assist with personal care where required, including toileting, handwashing and mealtimes e.g. snack.
• Provide reassurance, encouragement and emotional support to help the child feel safe and settled.
• Support positive behaviour and help the child follow pre-school rules and routines.
• Help create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Carry out regular observations of the child during play, activities and daily routines.
• Record observations of the child's learning, development, interests, strengths and areas where further support may be needed.
• Contribute to the preparation, implementation and review of Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Monitor and record the child's progress towards agreed targets.
• Share regular feedback with the Pre-School Leader to help inform future planning and support strategies.
• Identify and report any concerns or changes in the child's development, behaviour or support needs to the Pre-School Leader.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families and staff.
• Follow all pre-school policies and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety and confidentiality.
• Work positively with parents and other professionals involved in the child's care and development, as directed by the Leader.
• Attend relevant training and staff meetings as required.
• Assist with other reasonable duties within the pre-school setting.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Hold a minimum Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Children’s Care, Learning and Development (CCLD), or be currently working towards a relevant qualification. Evidence of enrolment on a recognised childcare course must be provided.
• Have a minimum of six months' experience working with children in an educational setting, such as a school, nursery or pre-school.
• Have an understanding of child development and the needs of young children.
• Have experience of carrying out written observations, identifying children's learning needs and using observations to support their learning and development.
• Have the ability to work independently and use their own initiative.
• Organisational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records.

Desirable Skills

• Experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or additional needs.
• Experience of working as part of a team.
• Oral communication skills.
• An understanding of inclusive practice and supporting individual learning needs.

Further Information

Application Process: To apply for this post please contact the pre-school via email at woodburnpre-school@hotmail.co.uk and a copy of the application form will be sent to applicants. Application forms are to be forwarded via email to woodburnpre-school@hotmail.co.uk. Application forms must be received no later than 1.15pm on Friday 20/11/2026. Other Information: Applicant must be 18 years or over to apply. Work time - 15 hours per week TERM TIME ONLY 8.45am to 11.45am (3 hours per day) (Monday to Friday inclusive) Contract from December/January 2026 to June 2027. An Access NI check, Declaration of Health from your G.P. and relevant Trust checks will be carried out if applicant is successful. All offers of employment will be subject to all checks and two satisfactory references including one from your current/most recent employer being received. Woodburn Pre-School Playgroup is an Equal Opportunities Employer.