Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Specialist School
Location: Woking
Student Age Range: 11-17 years
Are you a resilient, compassionate, and dedicated individual looking to make a profound difference in the lives of young people?
We are an independent specialist school committed to providing high-quality, therapeutic, and child-centred education for pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Many of our students also have other Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) such as Autism, ADHD, and communication difficulties, and may have experienced significant trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
Our approach is deeply rooted in trauma and attachment-informed practices, ensuring a supportive and understanding environment for both students and staff. We place the child at the heart of every decision, working collaboratively with education and therapy professionals, parents/carers, local authorities, and, most importantly, our students, to achieve outstanding outcomes.
About The Role:
As an HLTA at our school, you will quickly discover that no two days, and no two children, are the same. We are seeking very special individuals who can support young people with complex and challenging behaviours. You will understand that our students require significant attention, tailored communication, consistency, flexibility, and a non-judgmental approach. Resilience, persistence, and a solution-focused mindset are essential qualities for this rewarding role.
Your responsibilities will be varied and may include:
...- Supporting teachers in the classroom to deliver engaging lessons.
- Working with children on a 1:1 basis or delivering targeted sessions with small groups.
- Preparing and managing classroom resources.
- Accompanying students on educational trips and visits.
- Providing social support, including during lunchtimes.
- Managing heightened behaviours and ensuring the safety of all students.
- Engaging students in positive activities, such as playing board games or conducting science experiments.
- Creating inspiring displays to celebrate student work and achievements.
- Actively participating in therapy sessions or reflective practice following challenging periods.
- Celebrating every success, no matter how small.
We highly value our HLTAs and encourage their active participation in the decision-making processes that drive our school forward. We want you to contribute to the development of both our academic curriculum and our extra-curricular offerings, bringing your unique interests and passions to enrich our students' experiences.
Why Join Us?
We believe in investing in our staff and offer an excellent range of benefits and rewards, including:
- A staff laptop and mobile phone.
- Extensive training and professional qualification opportunities.
- Small class sizes with dedicated specialist TA support.
- Enhanced Occupational Sickness Scheme.
- The chance to win up to £150 per month in our REACH awards.
- Service awards of £200 (2 years), £400 (5 years), and £600 (10 years), plus up to £500 special recognition award for outstanding practice.
- A £2,500 bonus upon successful completion of your probationary period.
- Salary sacrifice schemes, including childcare vouchers, technology, and cycle to work.
- Regular therapeutic and supportive supervision.
- Access to MediCash, providing cashback for various medical appointments and treatments (e.g., dental, optical, physiotherapy).
To Apply:
If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and believe you have the qualities and dedication required for this challenging yet immensely rewarding role, we would love to hear from you.
Please apply now, or contact Paul Hirchfield on 01293 527416 for further information. paul.hirchfield@randstadeducation.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you!
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
