Job Description
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – 1:1 Specialist Support
Location: Split between Sunninghill Prep and Dorchester Learning Centre
Phase: Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2
Contract: Full-time (Term Time Only)
Salary: up to £17 per hour
Start Date: November 26
An exciting opportunity to make a real difference
We are seeking an enthusiastic, highly skilled and committed Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to provide dedicated 1:1 support to a child across Key Stages 1 and 2.
This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced teaching assistant or HLTA who is passionate about supporting children to overcome barriers to learning, develop confidence and independence, and achieve their full potential.
The role will initially be split between Sunninghill Prep and the Dorchester Learning Centre, providing the successful candidate with the opportunity to work across two supportive educational environments. The post will require flexibility, excellent communication and the ability to build strong relationships with colleagues, families and external professionals.
The role
Working closely with the class teacher, SENDCo and wider pastoral and support teams, you will provide high-quality individualised support to the child across their academic, social and emotional development.
You will be expected to:
• Provide consistent, nurturing and highly effective 1:1 support.
• Support the child to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life.
• Adapt learning activities and resources to meet individual needs.
• Develop the child's confidence, resilience, independence and self-esteem.
• Promote positive behaviour and support emotional regulation using appropriate strategies.
• Work proactively with teachers to identify barriers to learning and implement effective support strategies.
• Monitor progress and contribute to assessment and evidence of learning.
• Keep accurate records and contribute to individual support plans and reviews.
• Encourage the development of social communication, relationships and independence.
• Support the child during lessons, transitions, breaktimes, lunchtimes and other aspects of the school day as appropriate.
• Communicate effectively with teaching staff, SEND professionals, parents/carers and other relevant professionals.
• Contribute to a consistent approach across both settings, ensuring that strategies and expectations are understood and maintained.
• Use initiative and professional judgement while recognising when to seek advice or further support.
• Promote safeguarding, wellbeing and the school's values at all times.
About you
We are looking for someone who is experienced, resilient, warm and child-centred, with the confidence and professional skills to provide high-quality individual support.
The successful candidate will ideally have:
• HLTA status or equivalent experience/qualification, with a strong understanding of supporting learning across KS1 and KS2.
• Significant experience working as a Teaching Assistant, HLTA or in a similar educational support role.
• Experience of providing 1:1 support, ideally to children with additional needs and/or complex learning, communication, social, emotional or behavioural needs.
• A good understanding of the primary curriculum and the ability to support learning across a range of subjects.
• The ability to differentiate and adapt activities to meet an individual child's needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A calm, patient and consistent approach.
• The ability to build a trusting relationship with a child while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• The confidence to work independently and use initiative.
• A commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of children.
• A willingness to learn, reflect on practice and develop professionally.
What we can offer
We can offer the opportunity to:
• Make a significant and lasting difference to a child's educational and personal development.
• Work as part of a committed and supportive team.
• Develop specialist knowledge and experience in 1:1 and SEND provision.
• Work across two complementary educational settings.
• Access appropriate professional development and training.
• Be part of a school community that values inclusion, relationships and the individual needs of every child.
Please apply here: https://applicant.website/i/65A755/vacancy-info/0000001415
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the date advertised. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis as applications are received.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be required to undergo appropriate safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references, in accordance with our safeguarding procedures.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate the skills, experience and commitment required for this important role.