ASD Specialist Teaching Assistant
ASD Specialist Teaching Assistant Needed ASAP
Do you have a passion for working with children on the Autism Spectrum? We’re searching for a dedicated and skilled ASD Specialist Teaching Assistant to join our team as soon as possible. This is an opportunity to make a profound impact on the life of a child with Autism in an Ofsted-rated “Good” school in Derby.
The Role: You’ll be working 1:1 with a child who has high-functioning Autism, providing tailored support to help them succeed in a mainstream school environment. You’ll join a small class with an exceptional teacher adept at adapting to the unique needs of each student. The school’s top-notch facilities foster an inclusive environment, allowing you to tailor your approach to meet the child’s needs. This is a full-time role, with the possibility of extending through to September.
The Ideal Candidate: We want someone with the right mix of experience and passion. Your background might be varied, but your dedication to supporting children with Autism is unwavering. Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): You should have hands-on experience working with children who have ASD. You understand the nuances of the spectrum, from sensory sensitivities to social interaction challenges, and know how to adapt your approach to meet each child’s unique needs.
- Understanding of SEN Strategies: Knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN) strategies and interventions is crucial. You should be able to implement these strategies effectively, tailoring them to support the child’s learning, communication, and social skills.
- Behavior Management Skills: Experience in managing and positively redirecting behaviors associated with Autism is essential. You should be proficient in de-escalation techniques and reinforcing positive behaviors to create a supportive and safe learning environment.
- Empathy and Patience: These qualities are non-negotiable. Working with children on the spectrum requires a deep understanding of their experiences and challenges. Your empathy will help you connect with the child, while your patience will enable you to support them through their development at their own pace.
- Adaptability and Creativity: The ability to think on your feet and adapt your teaching methods is key. You should be creative in your approach, using a variety of tools and techniques to engage the child and facilitate their learning and development.
- Strong Communication Skills: You need to be able to communicate effectively not just with the child, but also with their family and your colleagues. Building a strong, collaborative network around the child is vital for their progress.
- Experience with Complex Needs: While not essential, experience working with children who have complex needs would be a significant bonus. This experience will equip you with a broader range of strategies and a deeper understanding of the varied challenges children with additional needs can face.
- Basic IT Skills: Competence in basic computer skills, internet safety, and educational software applications is also important. These skills will help you support the child’s learning in a modern educational environment.
- Formal Qualifications: Ideally, you possess a Level 2 or above Teaching Assistant qualification or an equivalent. Your formal training will be instrumental in providing structured and effective support.
Responsibilities:
- 1:1 Support: Build a trusting and effective working relationship with the child, understanding their unique needs and providing individualized support.
- Specialized ASD Experience: Your experience working with children aged 4-11 years old who have Autism Spectrum Disorder will be critical. You’ll understand the spectrum and be able to adapt your strategies accordingly.
- SEN Strategies and Interventions: Implement and tailor a variety of strategies to support the child’s learning, social interaction, and communication skills.
- Build Strong Relationships: Form meaningful connections with students, families, and colleagues. Your ability to communicate effectively and empathetically is key.
- Collaborate with Colleagues: Keep detailed and updated care plans, working closely with the class teacher to adapt and refine strategies as the child’s needs evolve.
Hours:
- Full-Time, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 15:30
Start:
- ASAP. We’re eager to have the right candidate join our team and start making a positive impact immediately in this excellent Derby school.
Full vetting will be required before you begin the role.
Apply today and get in touch with Classroom Recruiters to find out more.