Special Need Educator Aide

**Role Summary**:
The Special Needs Educator Aide provides essential support to the Special Needs Educator in delivering personalized and effective education to students with special needs. This role involves assisting in classroom management, helping students with daily activities, and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) under the guidance of the lead educator. The aide plays a crucial part in fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for students, ensuring their safety and well-being.

**Key Responsibilities**:
1. **Classroom Support**
- Assist the Special Needs Educator in preparing lesson materials, organizing classroom activities, and maintaining a structured learning environment.
- Provide one-on-one or small group assistance to students during lessons, ensuring they stay engaged and on task.
- Help students with day-to-day tasks such as transitioning between activities, managing materials, and using assistive technology.

2. **Behavioral and Emotional Support**
- Support students in managing behavioral challenges by following positive behavior support plans and interventions under the guidance of the educator.
- Offer emotional support and encouragement to students, fostering a positive and safe environment for learning.
- Observe students for signs of emotional or behavioral distress and report concerns to the lead educator.

3. **Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Implementation**
- Assist in the implementation of IEPs by following the lead educator’s instructions to meet the specific goals of each student.
- Help adapt learning materials to accommodate students’ individual needs and learning styles.
- Monitor student progress and provide feedback to the lead educator on student achievements and areas of concern.

4. **Daily Care and Safety**
- Support students with personal care tasks (if necessary) such as feeding, dressing, or mobility assistance, while maintaining their dignity and independence.
- Ensure student safety by monitoring and supervising activities both inside and outside the classroom.
- Follow health and safety procedures to manage risks and prevent accidents.

5. **Collaboration and Communication**
- Work closely with the Special Needs Educator, therapists, and other staff members to ensure a coordinated approach to student care and learning.
- Maintain open communication with parents, providing updates on the student’s day-to-day activities (as directed by the lead educator).
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to discussions on student progress and strategies for improvement.

6. **Administrative Tasks**
- Assist in preparing materials for lessons and activities, such as photocopying, laminating, and organizing resources.
- Help maintain accurate records of student attendance, progress, and behavior under the guidance of the lead educator.

7. **Professional Development**
- Engage in continuous professional development by attending relevant workshops, trainings, and courses that improve skills in special education support.
- Participate in peer mentoring and observation to learn new strategies and best practices for supporting students with special needs.

**Skills and Qualifications**

1. **Educational Background**
- Minimum of a Nitec or above in Special Education, Early Childhood, or a related field. Unrelated fields may also be considered.
- Certification in special needs education or early childhood education is a plus.

2. **Experience**
- Previous experience working with children with special needs (e.g., ASD, ADHD, physical disabilities) is highly desirable. (Added Advantage)
- Experience in a classroom setting or working in an educational support role is preferred.

3. **Skills**
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and manage classroom materials effectively.
- Patience, empathy, and understanding when working with students who have diverse learning needs and behavioral challenges.
- Excellent communication skills to work collaboratively with educators, staff, and parents.
- Ability to follow instructions and work independently with mínimal supervision.
- Basic knowledge of assistive technology and tools used in special education is an advantage.