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.