Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) SEND Specialist

Prospero Teaching; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Prospero Teaching is recruiting for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) specialising in SEND at a Rochdale school. You will plan and deliver learning activities, lead small groups, cover and supervise classes, and act as a key contact for students, families and colleagues.

This role suits someone with SEND experience and leadership potential, committed to safeguarding. Eligible candidates should have HLTA status or equivalent senior SEND experience, strong planning and communication skills,

Qualifications

• 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.
• Enhanced DBS certificate (if available) or willingness to apply for a new one)

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver learning activities.
• Lead small groups and supervise classes.
• Act as a key point of contact for students, families and colleagues.

Skills

HLTA status

SEND experience

Planning independently

Leadership

ASD/SEMH/PMLD

Communication skills

CACHE Level 3

Education

CACHE Level 3 or above (desirable)

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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