Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) | SEMH Provision

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay via PAYE

Long-term placement

School hours only

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD. is seeking an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) for a long-term role in Blackpool. You will support vulnerable learners in a specialist SEMH setting, delivering whole-class cover, small-group interventions, and 1:1 support where needed.

Applicants should have HLTA status (Level 4) or extensive Level 3 TA experience, with trauma-informed approaches and de-escalation training. A DBS on Update Service is preferred.

Qualifications

• HLTA status (Level 4) or Level 3 TA with proven whole-class cover experience.
• Experience in SEMH settings (SEMH, AP, PRU, or SEND).
• Team Teach or MAPA training or willingness to train for positive handling.
• Patient, resilient, empathetic and able to stay calm under pressure.
• Enhanced DBS on Update Service.

Responsibilities

• Provide whole-class cover, PPA cover, and lead targeted small-group interventions.
• Work 1:1 and in small groups with pupils with SEMH, neurodiversity or behavioural needs.
• Plan and adapt practical activities with teachers to keep learners engaged.
• Implement positive behaviour management and trauma-informed approaches.
• Support emotional regulation, wellbeing and pupil confidence as a role model.
• Liaise with SENCO, pastoral team and parents regarding progress and welfare.

Skills

Calm demeanor

Trauma-informed

Positive handling

Education

HLTA Level 4

Level 3 TA

Tools

MAPA

Team Teach

Job description

Are you an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) with a calm, resilient approach and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable learners?

We are currently recruiting an experienced and dedicated HLTA / Senior SEMH Teaching Assistant for a long-term role within a specialist setting in Blackpool.

In this role, you will work closely with pupils who face challenges around Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH), neurodiversity (such as ASC and ADHD), and associated behavioural difficulties. You will play a pivotal part in raising engagement, providing targeted interventions, and covering whole-class teaching where required.

The Role & Key Responsibilities

• Provide whole-class cover, PPA cover, and lead targeted small-group interventions across key stages.
• Work 1:1 and in small groups with children who have complex SEMH needs, trauma backgrounds, or social-communication difficulties.
• Plan and adapt practical learning activities alongside classroom teachers to keep pupils engaged and focused.
• Implement positive behaviour management strategies, non-confrontational de-escalation, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Support pupils' emotional regulation, wellbeing, and confidence, acting as a trusted role model.
• Liaise with the SENCO, pastoral team, and parents/carers regarding student progress and welfare.

Who We Are Looking For

• Qualification: HLTA status (Level 4 equivalent) or an experienced Teaching Assistant (Level 3) with a proven track record of whole-class cover and leading interventions.
• Experience: Significant background working within an SEMH school, Alternative Provision (AP), Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), or specialist SEND setting.
• Behaviour Training: Team Teach, MAPA, or equivalent positive handling and de-escalation certification is highly desirable (or a willingness to undergo training).
• Mindset: Patient, resilient, empathetic, and capable of remaining calm under challenging circumstances.
• Safeguarding: Must hold or be willing to process an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS on the Update Service.

What's on Offer?

• Long-Term Stability: A secure, ongoing full-time placement with the possibility of transitioning to a permanent contract.
• Competitive Pay: Paid weekly via PAYE with no umbrella company deductions.
• Supportive Environment: Work within a dedicated, close-knit pastoral and multidisciplinary team.
• Work-Life Balance: Monday to Friday, school hours only, giving you weekends and holidays off.