Classroom Assistant

JOB DESCRIPTION

Supporting learning and teaching:

• As directed by the Principal Teachers, work with groups of young people to support their learning activities;
• Support within the classroom setting, young people who present with Additional Support Needs inclusive of social, emotional and behavioural needs;
• Contribute to the support provided to our young people within the classroom setting to ensure they remain engaged in learning and stay on task;
• Use technology appropriately to support learning;
• Record observations of learning as directed;
• Read, scribe and support young people as required;
• Liaise appropriately with parents/carers and others relevant stakeholders as required or directed;
• Support with extra-curricular activities such as supported study and homework;
• Actively support and promote educational events, trips and activities.

As part of the Educational Team, assist in raising attainment and achievement:

• Provide support to young people who may have specific diagnosed/undiagnosed conditions of difficulties;
• Support young people who have individual educational targets for learning;
• Actively promote Literacy, Numeracy and Health and Wellbeing strategy within school;
• Promote and engage our young people with collaborative and co-operative approaches to education and learning.

Promoting positive relationships:

• Develop appropriate positive, supportive and nurturing relationships with young people within professional educational setting;
• Coordinate, in collaboration with care colleagues and duty managers, robust transitions throughout the school day;
• Supervise young people throughout the school day including during transitions to and from their houses;
• Support in care houses where required and directed by education management team;
• Encourage positive day to day interactions between staff and young people through restorative discussions;
• Provide understanding and support to all young people within the professional context;
• In collaboration with Care and SIS (Specialist Intervention Service) colleagues support the social and emotional needs of all young people.

Assisting with Resources and Administration:

• Support educational colleagues in the preparation of resources to ensure best outcomes of all learning activities;
• Take/share responsibility as an individual or as part of a team to ensure that resources are well maintained;
• Carry out administrative duties such as preparing classroom resources as directed by the Principal Teachers or other member of the Educational Management Team.

Ensuring Health and Wellbeing of our young people:

• Active adherence to all policies and procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people;
• Contribute to the process of Getting it Right for Every Child;
• Promote pupil confidence, resilience and independence at all times;
• Assist with the supervision of our young people out with the education day, e.g. Outdoor Learning;
• Appropriately, manage challenging behaviours of pupils as outlined within Rossie’s practice guidelines.

General Core Competences:

With the support of training, classroom assistants should work towards developing excellent:

• Relationships with pupils, teachers, parents and other stakeholders;
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality;
• Knowledge of child protection and safety procedures;
• Skills in oral communication, writing and numeracy;
• Administrative and organisational skills;
• Technical and ICT skills;
• Skills in working as a member of a team;
• Skills that facilitate, encourage and support learning;
• Working knowledge of children’s development and learning;
• Working knowledge of aspects of the Curriculum for Excellence.

Please note this job description is to provide a clear and concise statement of the main tasks and activities of the post, and it is not intended as an exhaustive list of every aspect of the post holder's duties. All the above duties will be carried out in line with Rossie policies and procedures. 

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

Qualifications (Essential):

• Standard grades, or National Qualifications
• Ability to become a member of the PVG Scheme

Qualifications (Desirable):

• Standard grades, or National Qualifications including English and Maths
• A relevant SVQ or NC or relevant experience
• Ability/willingness to register with Scottish Social Services Council or alternative recognised body

Knowledge Base (Essential):

• Awareness of strategies to support young people with a range of additional and complex support needs

Knowledge Base (Desirable):

• Awareness of Additional Support Needs and how this can affect child development
• Awareness and understanding of Curriculum for Excellence

Experience (Essential):

• Working with young people in an educational, care or similar environment

Experience (Desirable):

• Dealing with the public

Skills (Essential):

• ICT
• Engage young people
• Self-motivated
• Problem-solving
• Conflict resolution
• Effective communication both oral and written

Skills (Desirable):

• Develop programmes for working with staff and young people

Qualities (Essential):

• Respectful and empathetic
• Flexibility
• Non judgemental approach
• Honesty and integrity
• Positive and affirming
• Accountability
• Solution focused
• Emotional Intelligence

Full Clean Driving Licence (Essential).