Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) SEND Specialist

Prospero Teaching; Borough of Rossendale; On-site; GBP 1,420,000 - 1,775,000; Full time

Job summary

Prospero Teaching in Rochdale is seeking a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join a specialist SEND school. The role focuses on leading learning activities, supporting students aged 11-19 with complex needs, and acting as a key point of contact for families and colleagues.

You will plan and deliver lessons, lead small groups, supervise classes, and provide independent leadership within a skilled support team.

Qualifications

• HLTA status or equivalent SEND leadership experience.
• Extensive SEND experience supporting complex needs in a school.
• Confidently plan and deliver learning activities independently.
• Strong leadership to guide and support staff.
• Deep knowledge of ASD, SEMH, PMLD, SLD.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver learning activities for groups and individuals.
• Lead small groups and supervise classes.
• Cover lessons when needed and maintain pupil progress.
• Be a key point of contact for students, families and colleagues.

Skills

HLTA status

SEND experience

Independent planning

Leadership

ASD/SEMH knowledge

Education

CACHE Level 3 or above

Job description

Job Title: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - SEND Specialist
Area: Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Start Date: Monday 5th October 2026
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Weekly Rate: 600 - 750 per week (depending on experience)
Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm, term time only

About the School:
We're working with an outstanding specialist SEND school in Rochdale that sets high standards for its students and its staff. With five bespoke learning pathways supporting young people aged 11-19 with a wide range of complex needs, this is a school where skilled, experienced support staff are genuinely valued and trusted to make a difference. If you're ready to step up and lead, this is your opportunity.

About the Role:
As an HLTA, you'll bring a higher level of expertise, independence and leadership to the support team. You'll plan and deliver learning activities, lead small groups, cover and supervise classes, and act as a key point of contact for students, families and colleagues. This role suits someone who has built their experience in SEND settings and is ready for greater responsibility, while keeping the individual young person at the heart of everything they do.

What We're Looking For:

• HLTA status, or equivalent experience in a senior SEND support role
• Substantial experience supporting young people with complex SEND in a school setting
• Confidence planning and delivering learning activities independently
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to guide, model and support colleagues
• In-depth understanding of ASD, SEMH, PMLD, SLD and associated needs
• Excellent communication skills with students, families and external professionals
• CACHE Level 3 or above, or an equivalent qualification (desirable)

To Be Eligible You Must:

• Hold the Right to Work in the UK
• Have an enhanced DBS certificate on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for a new one
• Provide two professional references from child-related roles
• Be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people

Prospero Teaching is acting as an employment business/education recruitment agency in relation to this vacancy. The successful candidate will be required to register with Prospero Teaching and pass all safeguarding and vetting checks in order to fill this vacancy. All adults working with children and vulnerable young people are responsible for safeguarding and promoting their welfare.

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