Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Location: East London Contract: Term Time Only Reporting to: Deputy Headteacher

The Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and resilient Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join their specialist therapeutic primary provision.

This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a nurturing educational environment that supports pupils who have been excluded from mainstream education or are currently not attending school. The role combines supporting high-quality teaching with a strong focus on pastoral care, underpinned by therapeutic approaches to behaviour and learning.

The HLTA will play a key role in supporting the delivery of lessons, leading small group and whole-class learning where appropriate, and helping to create a safe, structured, and supportive environment where pupils can rebuild confidence and re-engage with education.

Key Responsibilities

The HLTA will:

* Support the planning and delivery of engaging lessons tailored to individual pupil needs

* Lead small group interventions and, where appropriate, deliver whole-class teaching

* Work closely with teachers to implement the curriculum using nurturing and therapeutic approaches

* Support differentiated learning for neurodiverse pupils and those with complex needs

* Assist in monitoring pupil progress and contributing to assessment and reporting

* Implement individual education and behaviour plans in collaboration with teachers and therapeutic staff

* Promote literacy and numeracy development through targeted support

* Use positive reinforcement and consistent behaviour strategies

* Build positive relationships with pupils to support engagement and emotional regulation

* Help maintain a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment

* Ensure safeguarding, risk assessments, and health and safety procedures are followed

About the Pupils

Pupils within this provision often have complex needs, including neurodiversity and social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) challenges. Many will have experienced disrupted education, including exclusion or prolonged absence from school.

The provision focuses on rebuilding trust in education through strong relationships, consistency, and a highly personalised approach to learning.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a committed and adaptable HLTA with experience supporting children with additional needs.

Key requirements:

* HLTA qualification or equivalent experience

* Experience working in a primary school setting, ideally Key Stage 2

* Experience supporting pupils with SEMH needs and/or autism (desirable)

* Strong understanding of inclusive and differentiated support strategies

Key skills and attributes:

* Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with pupils

* A calm, consistent, and nurturing approach

* Strong communication and teamwork skills

* Confidence leading learning activities and supporting teaching delivery

* Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic environment

* Commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing

The Organisation’s Approach

Our client delivers education through a therapeutic model, combining strong pastoral care with structured, consistent approaches to learning. Their approach is built on:

* Understanding neurodiversity and attachment

* Using relationships to support recovery and engagement

* Viewing behaviour as communication

* Promoting emotional literacy and life skills

* Delivering inclusive, strengths-based education

What’s on Offer

* A supportive and collaborative working environment

* Opportunities for professional development and training

* A rewarding role with real impact on young people’s lives

* A varied position where no two days are the same

Safeguarding Statement

Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment and adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures.

If you feel this would be the ideal vacancy for you, then please apply below or contact our team direct and ask for John Stokes @ SENCare Recruitment.

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