Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Wakefield area September 2026 Start

Reed; Pontefract; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed Education is seeking an exceptional HLTA to join a thriving primary school in Pontefract, West Yorkshire from September 2026.

This role offers the chance to lead lessons, support interventions, and work across EYFS, KS1 and KS2 within a collaborative staff culture. A strong commitment to pupil development and high expectations is essential for this long-term, full-time opportunity.

Qualifications

• HLTA qualification or substantial experience supporting learning in primary schools.
• Experience working in a UK primary school setting.
• Strong behaviour management and classroom leadership skills.
• Sound knowledge of the Primary National Curriculum.
• Experience supporting pupils in EYFS, KS1 or KS2.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proactive, flexible and enthusiastic approach.
• Genuine passion for education and child development.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging pre-planned lessons across EYFS, KS1 and KS2.
• Cover classes during teacher absence and PPA time.
• Lead small-group and one-to-one intervention programmes.
• Support pupil progress, attainment and confidence.
• Promote positive behaviour and a culture of high expectations.
• Assist with lesson preparation, assessment and classroom organisation.
• Support pupils with additional learning needs and varying abilities.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff and parents.
• Contribute to a safe, nurturing and inclusive school environment.

Skills

HLTA qualification

UK primary school experience

Behaviour management

Primary Curriculum knowledge

EYFS/KS1/KS2 experience

Communication skills

Proactive and enthusiastic

Passion for education

Education

HLTA qualification

Job description

Location: Pontefract, West Yorkshire

Start Date: September 2026

Contract: Full-Time Long-Term

Pay Rate: Highly Competitive Daily Rate

Sector: Primary Education

Recruiter: Reed Education

Ready to take the next step in your education career?

Reed Education is seeking an exceptional Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join a thriving and forward-thinking primary school in Pontefract, West Yorkshire from September 2026.

This is far more than a typical HLTA role. You'll become a valued part of a dedicated team committed to raising attainment, inspiring young learners, and making a genuine difference in children's lives. Whether you're an established HLTA, an experienced Teaching Assistant looking for career progression, or an education professional passionate about supporting primary-aged pupils, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Working across EYFS, KS1 and KS2, you'll play a key role in delivering engaging learning experiences, leading classes, supporting interventions, and helping every child achieve their full potential.

Why This HLTA Opportunity Stands Out

• Long-term, full-time role in a supportive primary school
• Opportunity to lead classes and develop leadership experience
• Work across Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2
• Supportive senior leadership team and collaborative staff culture
• Excellent opportunity for career progression within primary education
• Make a lasting impact on pupils' academic, social and emotional development
• Competitive daily pay with weekly payments

The Role: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant in Pontefract, you will work alongside teachers and school leaders to provide high-quality classroom support and deliver outstanding learning experiences.

You will confidently lead lessons during teacher absence, provide targeted intervention support, and help create an inclusive learning environment where every child can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging pre-planned lessons across EYFS, KS1 and KS2
• Cover classes during teacher absence and PPA time
• Lead small-group and one-to-one intervention programmes
• Support pupil progress, attainment and confidence
• Promote positive behaviour and a culture of high expectations
• Assist with lesson preparation, assessment and classroom organisation
• Support pupils with additional learning needs and varying abilities
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff and parents
• Contribute to a safe, nurturing and inclusive school environment

What We're Looking For

To be successful in this Higher Level Teaching Assistant job in Pontefract, you'll ideally have:

Essential Skills & Experience

• HLTA qualification or substantial experience supporting learning in primary schools
• Previous experience working within a UK primary school setting
• Strong behaviour management and classroom leadership skills
• Sound knowledge of the Primary National Curriculum
• Experience supporting pupils in EYFS, KS1 or KS2
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A proactive, flexible and enthusiastic approach
• A genuine passion for education and child development

Highly Desirable

• Experience delivering interventions in English or Maths
• SEN experience including supporting pupils with additional needs
• Experience covering whole classes independently

About the School

This respected Pontefract primary school has built a strong reputation for its inclusive ethos, supportive leadership team, and commitment to high standards of teaching and learning.

The school prides itself on:

• A welcoming and friendly atmosphere
• Strong pupil behaviour and engagement
• Excellent staff support and professional development
• A commitment to inclusion and pupil wellbeing
• High expectations for both staff and learners

You'll be joining a school community where your contribution is valued and where professional growth is actively encouraged.

Why Choose Reed Education?

As one of the UK's leading education recruitment specialists, Reed Education offers more than just access to great teaching assistant jobs.

Benefits of Working with Reed Education

• Competitive rates of pay
• Weekly pay
• Dedicated Education Consultant
• Access to CPD and training opportunities
• Long-term and permanent career opportunities
• Local expertise and established school partnerships
• Ongoing support throughout your placement
• Transparent and straightforward recruitment process