Job Description

Teaching Assistant

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week, Term Time Only.

Grade:Kent Scheme 3

Responsible to:SENCO/Class Teacher

Responsible for:No staff supervision required

Purpose of the Job:

To assist in the support and integration of children with special educational needs within a mainstream school

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

A) Supporting the Pupil/s

  • Drawing on knowledge of various forms of special needs, to develop an understanding of the specific needs of the child/ren concerned.
  • Taking into account the special needs involved, to aid the child/ren to learn as effectively as possible both in group situations and on his/her own by, for example:
  • clarifying and explaining instruction;
  • ensuring that the child is able to use equipment and materials provided;
  • motivating and encouraging child as required;
  • assisting in weak areas e.g. language, behaviour, reading, spelling, handwriting/presentation etc;
  • helping pupils to concentrate on and finish work set;
  • meeting physical needs as required whilst encouraging independence;
  • liaising with class teacher devising complementary learning activities.
  • To establish a supportive relationship with the child/ren concerned.
  • To encourage acceptance and integration of the child with special needs.
  • To develop methods of promoting/reinforcing children’s self-esteem.

B) Supporting the Teachers

  • To assist, with class teacher (and others professionals as appropriate), in the development of a suitable programme of support for child/ren with special needs.
  • In conjunction with the class teacher and/or other professionals to develop a system of recording child’s progress.
  • To contribute to the maintenance of child/ren’s progress records.
  • To participate in the evaluation of the support programme.
  • To provide regular feedback about the child to the teacher.

C) Supporting the School

  • Where appropriate, to develop a relationship to foster links between home and school.
  • To liaise, advise and consult with other members of the team supporting the child/ren when asked to do so.
  • To contribute to reviews of the pupil’s progress.
  • To attend relevant in-service training.
  • To support extra curricular activities.
  • Be aware and comply with policies and procedures, especially those relating to child protection, equal opportunities, health & safety, security, confidentiality and data protection. Reporting any concerns to the appropriate person, to maintain a safe and secure learning environment for the pupils.

Any other tasks as directed by the Executive Head Teacher / Head of Learning which fall within the purview of the post.

Essential Characteristics:

  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Successful recent experience of working with children
  • Ability to apply behaviour management policies and strategies which contribute to a purposeful learning environment
  • Organised and methodical with the ability to work to own initiative. Able to inspire and motivate others to succeed
  • Effective team worker
  • Ability to work calmly under pressure and have ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing circumstances / situations
  • Motivated and enthusiastic with a good sense of humour
  • Understanding of own behaviour and how this impacts on colleagues and pupils

Person Specification:

EssentialRequirements
Qualifications / Good all round general education
Teaching Assistant Induction preferable
Knowledge and Skills / Excellent communication skills
Good numeracy and literacy skills
Ability to use relevant technology/equipment
Accurate record keeping
Personal Qualities / Well presented
Approachable with calm nature
Well organised and methodical
Dependable and flexible
Good verbal communication skills
Team player
Motivation and Expectations / Ability to relate to challenging students with a view to encouraging them to achieve.
Able to work calmly and proficiently in challenging circumstances and ensure good classroom management at all times.