Education Support Officer - Primary School
Education Support Officers help primary school children access learning, develop confidence and take part fully in school life. Working under the direction of teachers and senior staff, they support children’s academic, social and emotional development.
You may support an individual child or work with several pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The role involves helping children overcome barriers to learning, encouraging independence and contributing to a safe, welcoming and inclusive school environment.
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- Help pupils take part in classroom activities under the guidance of teaching staff.
- Adapt your support to suit each child’s needs.
- Deliver planned learning activities and intervention programmes.
- Support children with literacy, numeracy and communication skills.
- Encourage confidence, independence, resilience and positive relationships.
- Support pupils’ social and emotional wellbeing and report concerns to appropriate staff.
- Help develop and follow individual education, behaviour and personal care plans.
- Assist with personal care and medical needs where required, following agreed procedures.
- Prepare and organise learning materials, equipment and specialist resources.
- Help pupils use computers and other technology for learning.
- Monitor progress, maintain records and share feedback with teachers.
- Assist with routine marking and assessment as directed by the teacher.
- Encourage positive behaviour and help pupils take responsibility for their actions.
- Supervise and support pupils during lessons, breaktimes, educational visits and other school activities.
- Work with colleagues, parents, carers and other professionals.
- Follow safeguarding procedures and maintain confidentiality.
Skills & knowledge
You'll need:
- Enjoyment of working with children.
- Patience, sensitivity and understanding.
- Clear spoken communication and active listening skills.
- The ability to build positive relationships with children and adults.
- An understanding of children’s different learning and support needs.
- The ability to adapt your support to meet individual needs.
- A positive, encouraging approach that helps children feel motivated and confident.
- Good literacy and numeracy skills.
- Organisation skills and the ability to prepare resources and maintain records.
- The ability to work as part of a team and follow teachers’ guidance.
- Flexibility, resilience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
- Confidence using computers and classroom technology.
- An understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality.
- A commitment to inclusion and helping every child achieve their potential.
Industry Qualifications
You need GCSE English and Maths at grades 4–9 (A*–C), or equivalent qualifications.
A Teaching Assistant NVQ Level 2 or equivalent is desirable.
A satisfactory police check is required.