UNISON is campaigning for respect and recognition for the Classroom Assistant workforce, in an education system that values classroom assistants, protects their rights as workers and supports the development of the profession.
We want all children to have the support they need to access their right to an education and to reach their full potential, a vision that cannot be achieved without Classroom Assistants.
UNISON calls on the Education Authority, the Department of Education and the Northern Ireland Executive to commit to the following outcomes for Classroom Assistants:
1. Classroom Assistants have secure, contracted work with fair pay, terms and conditions.
2. Classroom Assistants are valued alongside teachers as vital to the classroom, with job descriptions that accurately reflect the work they do.
3. Classroom Assistants have access to professional development and progression aligned to appropriate recognition of qualifications and experience.
4. Classroom Assistants are involved in the reform of SEND provision, ensuring their expertise supporting children is reflected in new delivery models.
CLASSROOM ASSISTANT GOOD WORK CHARTER
Download the Charter below:
LAUNCH EVENT - WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH - STORMONT
UNISON classroom assistants brought their campaign to Stormont on Wednesday 4th March, calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to support classroom assistants by committing to fix the many employment issues that have left them undervalued for too long.
At the event, classroom assistants called on trade unionists, child rights advocates and families to stand together in speaking up for these vital education workers. The message from classroom assistants, parents and children was loud and clear - The role of classroom assistants is crucial to the development of children.
There was great support from the MLAs attending who will now feedback to the Education Committee around the issues raised including fair contracts, accurate job descriptions, training & qualifications and having a voice in SEN transformation.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS OF THE LAUNCH
ROADSHOW EVENTS
Branches are holding a series of roadshow events bringing the campaign to their local areas.
To find out more about local events, please follow your UNISON branch facebook page.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS OF THE ROADSHOW EVENT IN DERRY
Useful Resources
► Classroom Assistants Good Work Poster
► Classroom Assistants Good Work Charter Leaflet
► Value the support Banner
► Classroom Assistant Social Media Graphic
► Classroom Assistant Roadshow Event FAQs