SEMH Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Tradewind Recruitment; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment is seeking an experienced SEMH HLTA to support pupils in a specialist SEMH setting in Ipswich. The post involves delivering engaging, differentiated learning and, where appropriate, leading lessons or small groups alongside teaching staff.

You will apply your experience to help pupils overcome barriers to learning, maintain clear behavioural expectations, and contribute to progress tracking and pastoral support.

Qualifications

• Experience as HLTA or experienced TA or similar education role.
• Ability to lead or support differentiated learning and activities.
• Strong classroom management and communication with pupils and staff.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging learning activities and lead lessons or small groups when required.
• Plan and prepare learning resources with teachers.
• Provide targeted support to pupils to access learning.
• Support pupils' social, emotional and educational development.
• Contribute to assessment, recording and communication about pupil progress.

Skills

Classroom management

Leading lessons

Communication skills

Teamwork

Boundary setting

Job description

SEMH Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Location: Ipswich, Area

Start Date: September 2026

Contract: Long-term / potential permanent

Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday

Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant, HLTA or education professional looking for a role where you can take on greater responsibility and have a real impact on young people's lives?

We are seeking an experienced and confident HLTA to join a specialist SEMH setting, supporting pupils who require an alternative approach to education and a high level of pastoral and academic support.

This role would suit someone who can combine strong classroom practice with an understanding of the importance of consistency, boundaries and positive relationships.

About the Position

As an SEMH HLTA, you will play an important role within the wider teaching and support team. You will work alongside teachers to deliver engaging learning opportunities and, where required, take responsibility for lessons or groups of pupils. You will be expected to use your experience and initiative to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and make meaningful progress.

• Supporting the delivery of engaging and appropriately differentiated learning.
• Taking responsibility for learning activities and, where appropriate, leading lessons or small groups.
• Working with teachers to plan and prepare resources and activities.
• Providing targeted support for pupils who require additional guidance to access learning.
• Helping pupils develop positive attitudes towards education and their own achievements.
• Maintaining clear and consistent expectations around behaviour and conduct.
• Using positive strategies to help pupils manage challenges and remain engaged.
• Supporting pupils' social, emotional and personal development alongside their academic progress.
• Contributing to assessment, record keeping and communication around pupil progress.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff and other professionals.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who can provide both strong educational support and a calm, dependable presence for pupils. You will ideally have:

• Previous experience working as an HLTA, experienced TA or in a similar education role.
• Confidence supporting or leading learning activities.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• The ability to adapt your approach to different pupils and situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A patient, resilient and solution-focused approach.
• The confidence to maintain appropriate boundaries while developing positive relationships with pupils.
• A genuine commitment to helping young people overcome barriers and achieve their potential.
• Previous SEMH or specialist education experience would be highly desirable, although candidates with strong mainstream experience and the right approach to supporting pupils with additional needs will also be considered.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced education professional to move into a specialist setting where their skills, judgement and relationships with pupils can make a significant difference.