Higher Level Teaching Assistant

Positive-Futures-Recruitment; Backwell; On-site; GBP 27,463 - 29,982; Full time

Job summary

Positive-Futures-Recruitment is recruiting for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in Backwell, England. The role is a permanent, full-time position with 40 hours per week during term time.

The school opens January 2027 and seeks an experienced HLTA to help shape the new provision for pupils aged 5–19 with ASD and SEMH. You will support the Class Teacher, lead lessons, and deliver a range of activities across subjects while promoting pupil wellbeing and independence.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils with SEND, including ASD and SEMH.
• Strong classroom management and behaviour support skills.
• Ability to plan and deliver engaging lessons.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead lessons and provide cover in absence of Class Teacher.
• Plan, prepare and deliver learning activities tailored to individual needs.
• Support pupils with personal care and promote independence.
• Monitor, record and report pupil progress, behaviour and wellbeing.
• Assist with curriculum planning and resource preparation.
• Act as a role model for new staff and support less experienced Teaching Assistants.

Skills

Experience with SEND/ASD/SEMH

Classroom management

Lesson planning & delivery

Excellent communication

Education

HLTA Diploma or Level 4

GCSE English & Maths (C/4+)

Job description

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (BH-1753)

Location Backwell, England Sector Education & Training Salary £27,463.00 to £29,983.00 per annum

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Location: Backwell
Hours: 40 hours per week, Term Time Only
Salary: £27,463 – £29,982.50 (Actual annual salary, dependent on experience & qualifications)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

A brand-new specialist school is opening in January 2027, and we’re looking for an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to help shape this exciting provision from the very beginning. This is a rare opportunity to be part of a transformative project that will make a lasting difference to children and young people.

The school will offer a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious environment for learners aged 5–19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social,Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. With capacity for 96 students, the vision is to create a safe, enriching and aspirational setting where every learner can thrive.

The Role

As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you’ll support the Class Teacher with all aspects of classroom delivery and take responsibility for teaching whole classes, small groups and individual lessons across a range of subjects. You’ll play a key role in creating a positive, engaging learning environment and supporting pupils’ wellbeing, independence and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead lessons and provide cover in the absence of the Class Teacher.
• Plan, prepare and deliver learning activities tailored to individual needs.
• Support pupils with personal care and promote independence.
• Monitor, record and report on pupil progress, behaviour and wellbeing.
• Assist with curriculum planning and resource preparation.
• Act as a role model for new staff and support less experienced Teaching Assistants.

About You

Essential Qualifications

• Higher Level Teaching Assistant Diploma or equivalent Level 4 qualification.
• GCSE English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above).

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience supporting pupils with SEND, including ASD and SEMH.
• Strong classroom management and behaviour support skills.
• Ability to plan and deliver engaging lessons.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

• Experience in a special school setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding principles and child protection procedures.