Higher Level Teaching Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic and experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join an all-age specialist setting supporting students with autism and associated learning needs. Students follow the National Curriculum, with many achieving accredited qualifications including GCSEs as part of their personalised learning journey. The setting admits pupils from Reception age to Post-16, with many choosing to remain after 16 where appropriate.

About the Setting

The vision is to create personalised learning opportunities tailored to each young person’s EHCP outcomes, academic targets and individual needs. The curriculum is designed around the core principles of Preparation for Adulthood, focusing on:

• Employment
• Friends, Family & Community
• Independence
• Good Health

These themes run consistently from EYFS to Sixth Form to ensure students develop the essential skills needed for life beyond school.

Autism-specific strategies are embedded throughout, including:

• PECS
• TEACCH
• Attention Autism

Wellbeing is woven into everyday teaching, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and yoga. Where specialist support is required, students may also access interventions such as play therapy, psychodynamic counselling, occupational therapy and rebound therapy.

The team takes pride in creating a respectful, nurturing environment that celebrates every achievement and values strong partnerships between students, families and the wider community.

The Role

As an HLTA, you will:

• Support and assist in planning and delivering high-quality, engaging learning activities.
• Lead small groups or one to one work.
• Use autism-specific strategies consistently and effectively.
• Promote student communication, independence and personal growth.
• Work with teachers, therapists and pastoral staff to help meet EHCP outcomes.
• Contribute to a structured, safe and supportive learning environment.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Hold HLTA status or an equivalent qualification.
• Have experience working with children or young people with autism or complex needs.
• Be knowledgeable about SEN approaches and communication systems.
• Be calm, patient, resilient and empathetic.
• Communicate clearly and work well within a multidisciplinary team.
• Be committed to helping every student succeed and thrive.

A Child and Adult Enhanced DBS is essential for this role, Candidate must hold one or be wiling to apply.

Desirable Backgrounds May Include:

• SEN school experience
• Specialist or alternative education
• Youth work or social care
• Behaviour support roles
• Therapeutic or pastoral roles

What’s Offered:

• A welcoming, supportive and inclusive working environment
• Opportunities for ongoing CPD and specialist training
• Clear pathways for professional development
• The chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with autism

If you are passionate about supporting pupils with autism and want to contribute to an exceptional specialist learning community, we want to hear from you.Apply today to begin your next rewarding career step.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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