Purpose of the Role

To support the learning, development, emotional wellbeing, and inclusion of a Reception-aged pupil with developmental delay while assisting the class teacher in delivering a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment. The role involves providing both individual and small-group support to enable the pupil to access the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum and achieve their full potential.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Pupil Support

• Provide 1:1 support for a Reception pupil with developmental delay.
• Assist the pupil in accessing learning activities tailored to their developmental stage.
• Support communication, language, social interaction, and play skills.
• Promote independence and self-help skills wherever possible.
• Adapt resources and activities to meet individual learning needs.
• Monitor and record progress against agreed targets and learning outcomes.
• Encourage positive behaviour and engagement in learning activities.
• Support transitions between activities and routines throughout the school day.

Classroom Support

• Work under the direction of the class teacher to deliver planned learning activities.
• Prepare, organise, and maintain learning materials and resources.
• Support small groups of pupils during teacher-led and independent activities.
• Reinforce learning objectives through structured intervention activities.
• Promote inclusion and participation for all pupils.

Special Educational Needs Support

• Implement strategies identified in the pupil's SEN Support Plan, EHCP, or other specialist recommendations.
• Work closely with the SENCO and external professionals such as speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, and occupational therapists.
• Follow agreed programmes to develop communication, social, emotional, and cognitive skills.
• Assist with assessments and observations as directed.

Personal Care and Wellbeing

• Support the pupil with personal care needs where required, maintaining dignity and respect at all times.
• Promote health, safety, and wellbeing throughout the school day.
• Assist with lunchtime, playground activities, and transitions as needed.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed at all times.

Communication

• Build positive and professional relationships with parents, carers, staff, and outside agencies.
• Participate in meetings relating to the pupil's progress when requested.
• Maintain accurate records of observations, achievements, and concerns.
• Report any safeguarding or welfare concerns promptly.

General Responsibilities

• Adhere to school policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and GDPR requirements.
• Participate in training and professional development activities.
• Support the wider life of the school as required.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications

• Level 2 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent).
• GCSE English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above) or equivalent.

Essential Experience

• Experience working with children in EYFS or Key Stage 1.
• Experience supporting children with special educational needs.
• Understanding of child development and developmental delay.
• Experience of implementing behaviour and learning support strategies.

Desirable

• Experience supporting pupils with speech, language, and communication needs.
• First Aid qualification.
• Knowledge of the EYFS Framework.
• Experience of working with children who have developmental delay, autism, or additional needs.