Job Title: Classroom Facilitator for a 7-year-old, neurodiverse boy in Paarl

We are seeking a warm, patient and proactive school facilitator for a bright, inquisitive 7-year-old boy in Paarl. He is autistic (Level 1) and benefits from support with emotional regulation, sensory processing, transitions, task initiation and navigating challenging situations within the school environment.

He is a gentle, creative child who loves nature, animals, Lego, building projects, science, mathematics, computers, Minecraft and imaginative play. He thrives in predictable, supportive environments and responds best to someone who is firm, calm, nurturing and neurodiversity-affirming in their approach.

This role is focused primarily on emotional, social and sensory support rather than academic assistance. The ideal candidate will build a trusting relationship with the child, work collaboratively with the school and family, and provide meaningful feedback regarding his daily experiences and wellbeing.

Main Purpose of the Job

To provide consistent, neuro-affirming support during the school day, helping the child regulate emotions, manage sensory challenges, navigate transitions and participate meaningfully in school activities while encouraging independence, self-advocacy and confidence. The facilitator will work closely with the child, family and school staff to create a supportive and predictable learning environment

The facilitator will act as an impartial observer, provide regular feedback to parents, and maintain appropriate professional boundaries while advocating for the child's support needs.

Job Objectives

•      Build a trusting relationship with the child, his teachers and parents.

•      Support the child during daily transitions, including arrival at school, movement between activities and transitions to extramural activities.

•      Assist with emotional regulation and sensory processing challenges throughout the school day.

•      Recognise signs of dysregulation, fatigue or sensory overload and proactively implement appropriate support strategies.

•      Break down tasks and support task initiation when he feels overwhelmed or unsure where to start

•      Facilitate alternative participation opportunities during challenging activities such as assemblies, sports days and large school events

•      Support engagement in movement breaks, walks and other regulation activities when needed.

•      Maintain regular communication with parents regarding emotional wellbeing, sensory regulation and notable school experiences

•      Collaborate professionally with teachers and members of the multidisciplinary team while maintaining focus on the child's individual needs.

•      Encourage self-awareness, self-advocacy and healthy boundary recognition.

Requirements

General Requirements

•      Fluency in English – Essential.

•      Consistent attendance and punctuality to ensure dependable support – Essential.

•      Legal employability in South Africa – Essential.

•      Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with parents and school staff – Essential.

Job Related Experience

•      Previous experience supporting autistic children or neurodiverse learners – Essential.

•      Experience assisting children with emotional regulation and sensory processing differences – Essential.

•      Previous school facilitation, au pair, companion or support work with children – Desirable.

•      Experience implementing neurodiversity-affirming support strategies – Desirable.

Job Related Qualifications

•      Relevant training in autism, neurodiversity, child development, psychology, education or related fields – Desirable.

•      Candidates with practical experience and a strong personal fit will be considered.

Job Related Personal attributes and Skills:

•      Calm, gentle and emotionally attuned approach – Essential

•      Ability to be firm and consistent without being harsh or authoritarian – Essential.

•      Strong observational skills and ability to identify emerging sensory and emotional needs.

•      Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with parents, teachers and the child – Essential.

•      Patience, flexibility and emotional resilience.

•      Ability to advocate appropriately for the child's needs while maintaining professional boundaries.

•      Enthusiasm, energy and genuine passion for working with neurodiverse children.

Job Related Knowledge

•      Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1) – Essential.

•      Familiarity with sensory processing and emotional regulation support strategies – Essential.

•      Knowledge of neuro-affirming approaches and child-led support practices – Highly Desirable.

•      Understanding of anxiety, transitions and sensory overload in school environments – Desirable.

Working Hours

•      Monday to Thursday: 07:30 – 14:10  

•      Friday: 08:00 – 13:30

•      School holidays: Not required.

Benefits