Higher Level Teaching Assistant / HLTA / Alternative Therapeutic Education

AWD online; Guildford; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job description

Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant who has experience working with SEND learners in an alternative or therapeutic education setting and supporting children and young people with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties is required for an alternative therapeutic education provider.

The organisation provides therapeutic education where animals, nature and outdoor learning play a key role in helping children and young people engage with education. You don’t need prior animal expertise but will need a willingness to work with and learn about animals. This is a very ‘hands on’ role, working outside in the elements and great fun for the right person, and not so fun for someone who likes to be based in a classroom every day. So, if you prefer the warmth of being indoors then this role wouldn’t be a great fit.

However, if you are an experienced and resilient Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant looking for a unique opportunity to work in a creative, hands-on learning environment, thrive in an outdoor, farm-based setting and want to be part of an innovative, therapeutic education provision, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

SALARY: £24,160 - £29,641 per annum (depending on experience) (based on a 41 Week Term Time Salary)

BENEFITS: Casual Dress, Company Events, Pension and the chance to work in a great learning environment

LOCATION: There are positions at three sites, West Horsley (Surrey) and Shamley Green (Guildford Surrey) and Liss (Hampshire)

JOB TYPE: Full-Time and Term-Time Positions Available

JOB OVERVIEW

We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant who has experience working with SEND learners in an alternative or therapeutic education setting and supporting children and young people with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties.

Working as a Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant you will join an innovative education provider offering alternative therapeutic education grounded in a nurturing animal / farm-based environment.

As a Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant you will provide a supportive and engaging learning experience for children and young people with diverse needs, where animals, nature, and the great outdoors are integral to the curriculum.

The role requires patience, adaptability, and a hands-on approach to supporting young people in their learning and personal development. Experience of safeguarding and an understanding of how to apply safeguarding principles in practice is essential for this role.

You will support and facilitate educational and therapeutic sessions, ensuring that the curriculum is creatively incorporated into various activities. No prior animal expertise is required, but a willingness to work with and learn about animals is essential.

If you are excited by the prospect of fostering a love of learning through practical, hands-on activities and believe in the power of a holistic approach to education, we encourage you to apply.

Why Join?

• A unique and rewarding role that integrates education, therapy, and outdoor learning
• Work with a passionate, skilled team dedicated to making a difference
• Opportunities for progression, further training, and development
• A dynamic and engaging work environment where no two days are the same

DUTIES

Your duties as a Teaching Assistant or HLTA / Higher Level Teaching Assistant include:

• Support individual and group learning activities, both in structured lessons and through practical experiences
• Assist young people with their educational and therapeutic goals, adapting strategies to suit individual needs
• Facilitate animal-assisted learning, helping students develop confidence and responsibility
• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver tailored learning plans
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and participation
• Assist in the planning and delivery of creative, hands-on sessions that integrate farm activities, equine learning, and other alternative approaches
• Support students who may be struggling with attendance and engagement, both on-site and through outreach when necessary
• Provide pastoral support, helping students develop emotional regulation and resilience
• Where appropriate, supervise apprentices and volunteers, contributing to a nurturing and supportive team environment
• Contribute to maintaining the farm environment, ensuring a safe and engaging space for students and staff

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

• Teaching Assistant qualification (preferred), HLTA qualification or relevant SEN / Teaching qualifications in specialist areas
• Degree or higher education qualification in a relevant field (or extensive experience working as a TA)
• Previous experience in a teaching or learning support role
• Experience working with SEND learners in an alternative or therapeutic education setting is essential
• Experience supporting children and young people with emotional, social, and behavioural difficulties (ESBD)
• Experience of safeguarding and an understanding of how to apply safeguarding principles in practice is essential for this role
• Understanding of animal-assisted learning or therapy is beneficial but not required
• Confidence working in an outdoor setting, year-round, in all weather conditions
• Excellent safeguarding knowledge and professional boundaries

The organisation is committed to Safeguarding Children and Young People. All roles are subject to Safeguarding scrutiny, including references and DBS Checks, prior to commencing employment.

APPLY TODAY…

By submitting your job application to us you are hereby giving us your express consent to submit your details to our Client for this purpose.

JOB REF: AWDO-P13215

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