TA/HLTA

Dovetail & Slate Ltd; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Dovetail & Slate Ltd is seeking a Teaching Assistant / HLTA to support secondary learners with SEN and SEMH needs in the North West. You will work with staff to deliver engaging lessons, provide tailored learner support, and help manage a positive learning environment.

Experience in education, strong communication, and DBS clearance are essential; HLTA status or Level 3 qualification is desirable. The role may involve leading activities and covering lessons as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience of supporting teaching and learning in an education setting.
• Commitment to helping every learner achieve their potential.
• DBS clearance (update service) or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Support the class teacher in planning and delivering lessons.
• Provide tailored support to individual learners and small groups.
• Help create a positive, inclusive and well-managed learning environment.
• Contribute to assessment, monitoring and recording of learner progress.
• Lead activities and cover classes at HLTA level when required.

Skills

Experience in education

Communication skills

Teamwork

Patient approach

Flexible/adaptable

DBS checked

Education

HLTA status or Level 3 qualification

Job description

Recruitment for education and the public sector

SEN & Support Not specified Permanent entry Level 14 September 2026

Are you a dedicated teaching assistant ready to take the next step and make a real difference to secondary-age learners with SEN and SEMH needs?

About the Role

An education provider in the North West is looking for a Teaching Assistant / Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join their team on a permanent basis. This is a rewarding opportunity to support teaching and learning and to help every learner reach their potential.

You’ll work closely with teaching staff to deliver engaging, inclusive support both in and out of the classroom, working with secondary-age learners who have special educational needs and social, emotional and mental health needs. Depending on your experience, you may also take responsibility for leading learning activities and covering lessons in the absence of the teacher.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the class teacher in the planning and delivery of lessons.
• Providing tailored support to individual learners and small groups.
• Helping to create a positive, inclusive and well‑managed learning environment.
• Contributing to the assessment, monitoring and recording of learner progress.
• Leading learning activities and covering classes where working at HLTA level.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience of supporting teaching and learning in an education setting
• A commitment to helping every learner achieve their potential
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• A patient, encouraging and flexible approach
• A DBS registered on the update service

Desirable (but not essential):

• HLTA status or a relevant Level 3 qualification
• Experience of leading learning activities or covering lessons
• Experience of supporting learners with SEN or SEMH needs

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is genuinely motivated to support and inspire young people
• Can adapt their approach to meet the needs of different learners
• Takes pride in contributing to a positive learning environment
• Is keen to develop their skills and grow within the role

Support the Next Generation

Skills & Qualifications

Supporting learners with SEN Supporting learners with SEMH needs Lesson planning support Small group support Individual learner support Assessment and monitoring Leading learning activities

• Location: the North West
• Phase: Secondary