Afterschool Special Needs Assistant - Wicklow Town

Role Overview

Join Kids Inc. as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) providing dedicated one-to-one support to children with additional needs within an afterschool setting at Wicklow ETNS for the 2026/2027 school term. This part-time role is term-time based and offers a welcoming environment where children can relax, complete homework, and engage in creative and outdoor activities after school.

Compensation and Schedule

• The hourly wage is €15.00 until 30th September 2026, increasing to €15.75 per hour from 1st October 2026.
• Guaranteed minimum of 10 hours weekly, with potential for 20 to 25 hours per week.
• Term-time position commencing 26th August 2026.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer individualized one-to-one assistance throughout the afterschool programme.
• Support and encourage the child’s communication skills, social interaction, independence, and emotional wellbeing.
• Assist with homework and daily activity participation.
• Facilitate engagement in games, creative projects, and outdoor play.
• Collaborate with staff members to maintain a safe and inclusive setting.
• Ensure continual focus on health, safety, and child wellbeing.

Qualifications and Attributes

• Experience working with children, especially those with additional needs, is preferred.
• Possess patience, kindness, enthusiasm, and strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is required.
• Full driving licence is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Willingness to complete Garda Vetting and provide references as part of compliance checks.

Benefits and Opportunities

• Competitive hourly pay, rising during the term.
• Access to paid, certified in-house training programmes.
• Prospects for career growth within a large national organisation.
• Support from experienced managers and child development experts.
• Employee referral schemes and participation in the Bike to Work Scheme.
• Chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives daily.

Additional Information

Applicants must undergo Garda Vetting and, when applicable, provide a Police Clearance Certificate if they have lived outside Ireland for over six months since turning 18.