Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Sky Vale School

Five Rivers Child Care Ltd; Bristol; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme

Company pension scheme

Comprehensive training

Employee Support Programmes

Blue Light Card

Enhanced maternity package

Refer a Friend bonus

Long service recognition awards

Job summary

Five Rivers Child Care Ltd is seeking a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant at Sky Vale School in Bristol. In this role, you'll support teachers and work with children in a nurturing environment, helping them thrive in alternative education settings.

The position involves full-time hours during term time, offering a supportive, therapeutic approach to education. You will be part of a values-driven team focused on positive change and continuous professional development.

Qualifications

• Experience in specialist or alternative education preferred.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are required.
• Right to Work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Support teachers in the classroom and with outreach sessions.
• Provide tailored learning environments for children.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team for positive change.

Skills

Strong written communication

IT skills

Active listening

Confidence in communication

Job description

Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Sky Vale School

Sky Vale School is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). This is an exciting opportunity to work as part of a highly skilled, supportive team in an environment where children are respected, listened to, and actively encouraged to be involved in shaping their own learning experiences.

About the Role

As an HLTA at Sky Vale School, no two days will be the same. You will play a key role in supporting our teachers both within the classroom, working with children and young people who may not be able to attend a traditional school setting.

You will follow a flexible, creative learning structure designed to ignite curiosity and build confidence, helping our learners discover a passion for education. While based at our Ofsted registered site, you will also support our local 1ACE (Another Chance Education) provision.

Our Approach

At Sky Vale School, we are committed to trauma informed practice. You will work within a nurturing, therapeutic model supported by ongoing training and guidance. Our leadership team invests in staff development, ensuring you have access to up to date training and regular opportunities to explore your professional goals.

Many of the children we support have experienced significant instability in their lives. We are therefore seeking individuals who are committed, resilient, and passionate about making a difference within a values driven alternative education setting.

Working With Us

• Support and deliver sessions for children across Bristol in an outreach capacity
• Provide learning in safe, supportive environments tailored to each young person’s needs
• Contribute to a curriculum offering a blend of academic, vocational, SEND and therapeutic approaches
• Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team invested in positive change

Hours

• Term time only, in line with local authority dates
• Full time: 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday, 08:30–16:30
• Part time or compressed hours may be considered

Why Join Sky Vale School and Five Rivers?

• Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme
• Company pension scheme
• Comprehensive training through in house and external providers
• Employee Support Programmes
• Blue Light Card
• Enhanced maternity package (after 1 year of service)
• Refer a Friend and Refer a Foster Carer bonus schemes
• Long service recognition awards

What We’re Looking For

• Strong written communication and IT skills
• Ability to communicate confidently with children, colleagues, and external partners
• Excellent active listening skills
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Right to Work in the UK

If you have experience in specialist or alternative education—or simply have a passion for helping young people thrive—we would love to hear from you.

Five Rivers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will undergo appropriate child protection checks, including references and a DBS check.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals.