Special Needs Assisting Level 5

Gain the knowledge, skill, and competence to work effectively and follow appropriate health and safety procedures in the workplace.

At the end of this unit learners will be able to: 

• Summarise key elements of child protection policy. 
• Work within principles of good practice in e.g. Confidentiality, inclusion, independence, boundaries, etc. 
• Understand the role of the special needs assistant in relation to promoting health and safety. 
• Reflect on one’s own values and attitudes in working with children with special needs.
• Explain the rights of children with special needs in relation to personal autonomy. 
• Understand the importance of ongoing training, reflection, supervision, and support. 
• Demonstrate an ability to work effectively with others in promoting and maintaining good practice.

At the end of this unit learners will be able to: 

• Outline the impact of a range of special needs on communication styles and needs.
• Examine the importance of non-verbal communication.
• Explore practical ways of relating to children with special needs including the use of communication aids.
• Identify the personal challenges and opportunities associated with creating and maintaining relationships with children with special needs. 
• Assist children with disabilities in a range of activities, ensuring equality of opportunity through working in a safe and professional manner.

At the end of this unit learners will be able to: 

• Outline the role and responsibilities of the special needs assistant and how it differs from that of the teacher. 
• Describe the roles of the multidisciplinary team in the child’s life.
• Recognise the role of parents/guardians as the child’s primary caregivers. 
• Relate appropriately to parents, teachers, and other carers. 
• Contribute insights and experiences to team discussions and meetings as appropriate. 

At the end of this unit, learners will be able to assist children with special needs with a range of activities in their daily routine under direction including:

• Boarding and alighting from school buses. 
• Assisting with communication including assistive technology and writing.
• Clothing, feeding toileting and general hygiene and out-of-school visits walk, etc. 
• Accompanying individuals or small groups and other activities as appropriate. 
• Support the teacher in preparing for activities, resources, and tidying up the classroom work effectively.