Higher Level Teaching Assistant
SEN Specialist School Post 16
September 2025
Are you a skilled and compassionate SEN specialist eager to advance your career by supporting young people with complex needs?
We are working with a forward-thinking specialist SEN school dedicated to post-16 learners with diverse SEND profiles—including SEMH, ASC, ADHD, SLD, and Speech, Language, and Communication Needs. This school empowers students with the emotional, academic, and life skills essential for a successful transition into adulthood.
They are seeking a passionate Higher Level Teaching Assistant to play a vital role both in the classroom and by supporting students during their weekly work experience placements.
About the HLTA Role:
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Delivering and supporting the planning of tailored learning sessions under the guidance of teaching staff and therapists
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Leading small group interventions and targeted 1:1 support to develop academic engagement, resilience, emotional regulation and independence
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Working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to implement individual learning and behaviour support plans
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Supporting personal and social development, including preparation for adulthood and employability skills
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Modelling trauma-informed, relational approaches to promote a safe and nurturing learning environment
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Contributing to the assessment and review of student progress, providing feedback and supporting documentation
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Supporting transitions and fostering skills for life beyond school
The Ideal Candidate:
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HLTA status (or willingness to work towards it), or equivalent experience working at a higher level of teaching support
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Strong experience supporting students with SEMH, autism, and additional needs – particularly in KS4/Post-16 settings
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Excellent communication skills, and the ability to build positive, trusting relationships with young people
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Emotional resilience, patience, and a calm, reflective approach
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A strong understanding of trauma-informed and person-centred practice
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A passion for inclusive education and a belief in every young person’s potential
If you’re ready to take on a fulfilling HLTA role in a specialist post-16 setting where relationships, resilience, and readiness for adulthood are at the heart of everything the school does, we’d love to hear from you.o
Apply to this advert, or contact Katie at Parker Smith Inclusion on 0203 011 4848 to find out more.