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Education Aide

Also known as Teacher's Aide, Education Support Staff, Teacher Assistant, Education Assistant and School Learning Support Officer.

Education aides assist teachers with the supervision and support of students and the delivery of learning programmes.

They also provide support and assistance to students with special needs, including those with physical or intellectual disabilities, or behavioural issues.

TASKS

Education aides may perform the following tasks:

assist and participate in activities that improve the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of children in schools and preschool centres
prepare indoor or outdoor areas for learning or recreational activities
assist children with intellectual, physical and behavioural difficulties with their academic studies
assist students with physical challenges by lifting, positioning and exercising, and transferring them to or from transportation
assist with personal hygiene, toileting and feeding requirements as required by each individual student
undertake specific therapy tasks with individual students under the guidance of the teacher or nominated professional
assist students with intellectual disabilities with the use of learning aids
assist children individually to learn social skills
assist with the preparation of teaching materials, copying and collating written or printed material
distribute and collect lesson material

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good communication skills
patient in dealing with people
mature and sensible
able to work independently or as part of a team
enjoy helping children learn
able to accept direction and supervision

Very Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Education Worker - provides assistance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and liaises with educational bodies, government agencies and committees.

Education Aide - Braille - provides assistance to blind or vision- impaired students and facilitates communication between teachers and other staff members.

Education Aide - Auslan - provides assistance to deaf and hard of hearing students and facilitates communication between teachers, other staff members, and hearing students.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as an education aide without formal qualifications, but employers usually require Year 10. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in education support. Some courses provide training in specific education areas such as science, food or information technology. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

Additional Information

Before undertaking practical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). A National Police Certificate may also be required. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Education aides are employed in primary and secondary schools and colleges. The hiring of support staff is usually done by the school's principal. Jobs may be full time or part time.