ALN Teaching Assistant in Newport, Gwent

Responsible to: Headteacher / Senior Leadership Team
Operationally accountable to: ALNCo
Working alongside: Teachers, ALNCo, support staff and external professionals.

1. Job Purpose

To support learners with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) to access learning, develop independence and achieve their individual potential.

The postholder will provide inclusive, person-centred support, helping to implement Additional Learning Provision (ALP) identified within Individual Development Plans (IDPs), under the direction of the class teacher and ALNCo.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Support individuals and small groups to access the Curriculum for Wales.
• Implement agreed strategies and additional learning provision identified within IDPs.
• Adapt learning resources and activities to meet individual needs.
• Promote communication, independence, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
• Support learners with communication, interaction, sensory, physical, social and emotional needs.
• Encourage positive relationships, inclusion and participation in all aspects of school life.
• Monitor and record observations of learner progress and provide feedback to teachers and the ALNCo.
• Contribute to person-centred reviews and discussions about learner progress.
• Work collaboratively with families, colleagues and external professionals.
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety, confidentiality and school policies.

3. Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience of working with children or young people.
• Understanding of additional learning needs and inclusive practice.
• Ability to build positive relationships with learners.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• A patient, caring and flexible approach.

Desirable:

• Experience of supporting learners with ALN.
• Knowledge of autism, ADHD, communication needs and emotional regulation.

4. Professional Expectations

The postholder will:

• Work within the direction of the class teacher and ALNCo.
• Maintain professional boundaries and work within their training and competence.
• Contribute to a positive, supportive and inclusive school environment.
• Engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional development.

5. Welsh Government Framework Alignment

The role reflects the principles and requirements of:

• Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018.
• Additional Learning Needs Code for Wales 2021.
• Curriculum for Wales.
• Professional Standards for Assisting Teaching, Teaching and Leadership.
• Equality Act 2010.

6. Expected Outcomes

The successful postholder will contribute to:

• Improved access to learning and participation.
• Increased independence and confidence.
• Progress towards individual learning outcomes.
• Positive emotional wellbeing and a sense of belonging.

Note: The postholder supports the implementation and monitoring of ALP but does not assume the statutory responsibilities of the ALNCo or make statutory decisions regarding ALN.