SEN HLTA

Randstad NV; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad NV is partnering with specialist SEN schools in Cambridge and surrounding areas to recruit a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) on a full-time, permanent basis. You will lead learning, support EHCP outcomes, and collaborate with SENCOs and therapy teams to help pupils with complex needs flourish.

The role covers class leadership, EHCP-aligned interventions, and ongoing progress tracking within a supportive education environment.

Qualifications

• HLTA status (Level 4) or equivalent qualification
• Experience supporting children with SEND in a school or specialist provision setting
• Strong knowledge of SEN Code of Practice, EHCP implementation
• Excellent leadership, classroom management, and communication skills
• Training in de-escalation (e.g., Team Teach, Safety-Net, or MAPA) and moving & handling is highly desirable
• A valid Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or willingness to complete one)

Responsibilities

• Cover & Class Leadership: Plan and deliver engaging, accessible learning activities across various age groups and key stages to cover teacher PPA time, absence, or targeted group interventions
• Specialist SEN Support: Adapt learning resources and delivery methods to meet EHCP targets and sensory needs
• Team Collaboration: Guide and direct classroom Teaching Assistants, ensuring smooth classroom management and consistent support strategies throughout the school day
• Behaviour & Regulation Support: Utilise positive behaviour support strategies and gentle de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe, inclusive learning space
• Progress Tracking & Reporting: Assess pupil engagement and progress during cover sessions, maintaining detailed records to feedback to class teachers, SENCOs, and parents/carers
• Personal Care & Wellbeing: Assist with personal care and physical mobility needs where required by pupil plans, preserving dignity and safety

Skills

SEN experience

Leadership

Classroom management

Communication skills

De-escalation training

DBS Update Service

Education

HLTA Level 4 qualification

Enhanced DBS check

Job description

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA - SEN) - Cambridge & Surrounding Areas (Permanent Position)

Are you an experienced, Level 4 qualified Higher Level Teaching Assistant looking for a permanent, highly rewarding role where you can lead learning, support individual EHCP outcomes, and make a lasting impact in specialist education?

We are currently partnering with leading specialist SEN schools and academies in Cambridge and the surrounding areas to recruit a dedicated, resilient, and proactive Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) on a full-time, permanent basis.

In this pivotal role, you will work collaboratively with class teachers, SENCOs, and multidisciplinary therapy teams to support pupils with a range of complex needs-including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Severe or Moderate Learning Difficulties (SLD/MLD), and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. You will step up to deliver planned cover, lead small-group interventions, and help shape an environment where every child can flourish.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cover & Class Leadership: Plan and deliver engaging, accessible learning activities across various age groups and key stages to cover teacher PPA time, absence, or targeted group interventions.

• Specialist SEN Support: Adapt learning resources and delivery methods to meet complex, individual Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets and sensory needs.

• Team Collaboration: Guide and direct classroom Teaching Assistants, ensuring smooth classroom management and consistent support strategies throughout the school day.

• Behaviour & Regulation Support: Utilise positive behaviour support strategies, nurture principles, and gentle de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe, inclusive learning space.

• Progress Tracking & Reporting: Assess pupil engagement and progress during cover sessions, maintaining detailed records to feedback to class teachers, SENCOs, and parents/carers.

• Personal Care & Wellbeing: Assist with personal care and physical mobility needs where required by pupil plans, always preserving dignity, safety, and respect.

What We Look For:

• Qualifications: HLTA Status (Level 4 qualification) or equivalent recognised higher-level teaching/education qualification.

• Experience: Proven experience supporting children or young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within a school or specialist provision setting.

• Strong knowledge of the SEN Code of Practice, EHCP implementation, and sensory regulation tools.

• Excellent leadership, classroom management, and communication skills, with the ability to build quick rapport with pupils and colleagues.

• Training in de-escalation (e.g., Team Teach, Safety-Net, or MAPA) and moving & handling is highly desirable.

• A valid Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to complete one).

What The School Offers:

• Permanent Security: A full-time, contracted position offering long-term stability and clear professional progression paths.

• Competitive Salary: Reflective of your HLTA status, specialist qualifications, and SEN expertise.

• Professional Development: Continuous internal and external SEN training, including autism awareness, speech and language strategies, and trauma-informed practice.

• Supportive Environment: A collaborative, welcoming staff culture with dedicated leadership support.

Ready to take the next step in your SEN career in Cambridge?

Step into a deeply fulfilling, permanent HLTA role today.

We are strictly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All candidates will be required to undergo comprehensive vetting, reference checks, and an enhanced DBS disclosure.