Special Needs Teaching Assistant are employed in special needs schools, mainstream schools, and in other educational settings working with students who have a variety of special needs challenges. They work with students who have emotional and behavioral challenges, autism, physical disabilities, and other special needs.
The outlook for special needs teaching assistants is positive. Employment of teaching assistants is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.
The median annual wage for teaching assistants was $25,910 in May 2016.
What to Include in a Special Needs Teaching Assistant Cover Letter?
Roles And Responsibilities
- Providing academic support to students with special needs.
- Assisting the lead teacher in developing lesson plans and instructional materials.
- Preparing and implementing remedial programs for students requiring extra help.
- Promoting positive attitudes towards learning by encouraging the class to participate.
- Performing administrative duties such as greeting visitors, answering questions, taking phone calls, etc.
- Interacting with students, parents and teachers in a friendly way to create a supportive environment.
- Adapting all teaching materials and methods to suit the needs of individual students.
Education & Skills
Special Needs Teaching Assistant Skills:
- Knowledge of Microsoft office applications, such as Word and Excel.
- Experience with curriculum planning and classroom management.
- Knowledge of special needs education and school procedures.
- Experience creating visual aids for various learning styles.
- Patience and tolerance.
- Creativity and flexibility.
Special Needs Teaching Assistant Education Requirements:
- A Special Needs Teaching Assistant must have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must also have completed an accredited teacher assistant program.
Special Needs Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Example (Text Version)
Dear [Recruiter Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Special Needs Teaching Assistant as posted on your site. I am fully qualified to take on this role, having gained considerable experience in schools and colleges, working with children and adults with a wide range of special needs.
My five years of experience has allowed me to develop strong skills including:
- Implementing and monitoring individual education plans (IEPs).
- Helping to create and deliver curriculum materials.
- Assisting teachers with lesson planning.
- Liaising with parents and careers regarding students’ progress.
- Ensuring that students’ physical and emotional needs are met.
I have also developed excellent interpersonal skills, patience, understanding and the ability to stay calm under pressure. My training as a Special Needs Teaching Assistant has given me a full understanding of the needs of those who I would be working with and how best to meet them.
In addition to my work as a teaching assistant in schools, I have also worked as a support worker for individuals with special needs in their own homes. This role has allowed me to see how individuals learn best at home – what works for them and how they respond to different stimuli.
My resume is attached and I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips
In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your skills and experience working with students with special needs. Talk about how you have helped these students achieve success in the classroom. If you have any certifications or special training in working with students with special needs, be sure to mention that as well.
If you have any personal experience with a disability or know someone who does, be sure to mention that in your cover letter. This can show your potential employer that you have a personal understanding of what these students are dealing with and how you can help them.
Lastly, be sure to express your enthusiasm for working with students with special needs. Let the employer know that you are excited to help these students reach their full potential.
Refer to our Special Needs Teaching Assistant Resume Sample for more tips on how to write your resume and accompany it with a strong cover letter.
