Higher Level Teaching Assistant at Dorchester Middle School

Dorset Council UK; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Dorchester Middle School in Dorchester is seeking a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to support a looked-after pupil on a 1:1 basis. This 1-year fixed-term post is term-time only, 37 hours per week, with a pro-rata salary.

The role focuses on academic progress, social and emotional development, and reintegration into full-time schooling. The successful candidate will have HLTA status or equivalent, with experience of complex needs, and a strong commitment to safeguarding,

Qualifications

• HLTA status or equivalent experience required.
• Recent, successful experience of supporting pupils with additional or complex needs.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 in-school support for a pupil with complex needs.
• Act as a link between the school and alternative provision to ensure continuity of learning.
• Plan, deliver and adapt learning activities following teacher guidance.
• Monitor progress and contribute to planning and reviews.
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCO, external professionals and carers.
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation.

Skills

1:1 pupil support

SEN experience

Safeguarding knowledge

Education

HLTA status or equivalent experience

Job description

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

1-year fixed term contract

37 hours per week, term-time only

Grade 9, scp19 - £33,119 pro-rata

Required: September 2026

At Dorchester Middle School, we are committed to providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child is supported to succeed. We areseekinga dedicated,resilientand compassionate Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to undertake a highlyspecialisedrole supporting a pupil who is looked after.

This is a unique opportunity to make a significant difference to a child’s educational journey. The successful candidate will work 1:1 with a named pupil, supporting their academic progress, social and emotional development, and successful reintegration into full-time school life.

Key aspects of the role:

• Provide consistent 1:1 in-school support for a pupil with complex needs.
• Act as a key link between the school and alternative provision, ensuring continuity of learning and approach.
• Support andfacilitatea structuredreintroduction into full-time education.
• Plan, deliver and adaptlearningactivities in line with teacher guidance and pupil needs.
• Build a strong, trusting relationship with the pupil to promote engagement,confidenceand independence.
• Monitor, assess and report on progress, contributing to planning and review processes.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCO, externalprofessionalsand carers.
• Promote positivebehaviourand emotional regulation through consistent strategies.

The successful applicant will:

• Hold HLTA status or have equivalent experience.
• Have recent, successful experience of supporting pupils withadditionalor complex needs.
• Demonstrateexcellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Be adaptable, patient and solution-focused.
• Have a strong understanding of safeguarding and inclusive practice.
• Be committed to improving outcomes for vulnerable learners.

Dorchester Middle School is part of the Wessex Multi-Academy Trust, working collaboratively with local schools to provide high-quality education and support for all pupils.

Closing Date: Sunday 27th September 2026

Interview Date: TBC

For more information, please contact Kelly Leeming on 01305 265651.