Higher Level Teaching Assistant

SMART Education Recruitment; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 23,419 - 26,174; Part time

Job summary

SMART Education Recruitment is seeking a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant for a specialist post‑16 SEND college in Aston, near Birmingham. The role focuses on delivering high‑quality support and leading learning activities to help students develop essential life skills as they transition to adulthood.

The contract starts September 2026 and runs long‑term, with a Monday to Thursday pattern from 8:45am to 3:00pm. A Level 3 qualification and experience with complex SEND are required.

Qualifications

• Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching & Learning (or equivalent).
• Extensive experience supporting children or young people with complex SEND.
• Knowledge and practical experience of AAC systems.
• Experience supervising, mentoring or supporting other staff members.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high‑quality classroom support and lead learning activities for students with complex SEND.
• Support students using AAC systems and other personalised communication strategies.
• Work alongside teachers, therapists and support staff to deliver individual learning programmes.
• Provide guidance and support to Teaching Assistants.
• Encourage independence, confidence and preparation for adulthood.
• Promote a safe, inclusive and engaging learning environment at all times.

Skills

Experience with SEND

Mentoring staff

Team collaboration

Flexible approach

Education

Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching & Learning

Tools

AAC systems

Job description

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people with complex learning needs? As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant in a specialist post-16 SEND college in Aston, you will have the rewarding opportunity to support students as they develop essential skills for adulthood. This is a long‑term contract role, commencing in September 2026, ideal for a skilled Higher Level Teaching Assistant seeking a meaningful challenge in an inclusive and supportive setting.

Monday Thursday 8:45am 3:00pm

What's in it for you?

• Long‑term opportunity starting September 2026
• Work within a highly respected specialist post‑16 SEND setting
• Support students to develop communication, independence and life skills
• Collaborative multidisciplinary team with excellent support
• Ongoing professional development throughout the role

The Role

As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you will play a key part in delivering high‑quality classroom support and leading learning activities for young people with complex SEND. Your expertise will help students thrive both academically and socially as they prepare for the next stages of their lives.

Role Responsibilities

• Deliver high‑quality classroom support and lead learning activities for students with complex SEND
• Support students using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems and other personalised communication strategies
• Work alongside teachers, therapists and support staff to deliver individual learning programmes
• Provide guidance and support to Teaching Assistants
• Encourage independence, confidence and preparation for adulthood
• Promote a safe, inclusive and engaging learning environment at all times

Skills and Experience

• Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching & Learning (or equivalent)
• Extensive experience supporting children or young people with complex SEND needs
• Significant experience working within a specialist SEND school or college
• Knowledge and practical experience of AAC systems
• Experience supervising, mentoring or supporting other staff members
• Proactive, flexible and compassionate approach to supporting learners with diverse needs
• Enhanced Child & Adult DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one
• Available to start in September 2026 and commit to a long‑term role

Location and Package

• Role based in Aston
• £17.46 - £18.22 per hour
• Monday Thursday, 8:45am to 3:00pm
• Contract role commencing September 2026

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant looking to join a specialist college where you can make a genuine impact. If you have the skills, experience and passion to empower students with complex needs, we encourage you to apply and take your next step in specialist education.