At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special needs to thrive academically and emotionally in a hands-on role.
- Company: Haywards Farm School, an outstanding independent school focused on personalised education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health cash plan, free holiday accommodation, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy regular outdoor learning, team collaboration, and a strong focus on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with complex needs and a Level 3 or Level 5 qualification is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Haywards Farm School is a small, outstanding independent school in West Berkshire, supporting up to 34 students with a range of special educational needs and disabilities. Our pupils may have learning difficulties, social and emotional needs and autism (ASD). Many have a history of non-attendance and need a consistent, relational approach to help them re‑engage with education. As part of Amegreen Education, we focus on personalised education pathways that support both academic progress and emotional development, helping pupils build confidence, routines and readiness to learn.
We are looking for an energetic, dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to support students to thrive both academically and emotionally. This is a hands‑on role where relationships, consistency and calm leadership make a real difference every day. You will work closely with teachers and the wider team, step in to lead learning when needed and support strong practice across the TA team.
Key responsibilities
- Support pupils in class to improve engagement, behaviour and progress
- Deliver learning activities and interventions, in line with teacher planning
- Lead whole‑class learning when required
- Run a half‑termly supervision group to support the wider TA team
- Follow safeguarding procedures, school policies and the staff code of conduct
Essential requirements
- Proven experience supporting children or young people with complex needs, including SEND and social and emotional needs
- A relevant qualification at Level 3 or Level 5 (essential)
- Confidence leading learning, supporting engagement and behaviour, and working calmly under pressure
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with pupils and colleagues
Working pattern, support and benefits
- Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.00pm, with minimal after‑hours commitments
- Friday afternoons are CPD time with no students on site, plus 10 INSET days across the year
- Therapeutic reflection and twice‑daily briefings to support strong practice and consistency
- Regular offsite outdoor learning and enrichment sessions
- Hot lunch cooked on site every day
- Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and with our partnership school, sharing expertise and best practice
- Life insurance (death in service) – 4x basic annual salary
- Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation/eligibility applies)
- Training and development – induction and mandatory training, plus CPD, therapeutic support and further qualifications
- Free holiday accommodation – company holiday home on south coast
- Discounts – Blue Light Card + local partner discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – free, confidential 24/7 support helpline
- Company pension with award winning provider and enhanced employer contributions
- Company sick pay scheme available after 6 months’ service
- Electric car scheme + Cycle to Work – salary sacrifice options
- Recognition – Employee of the Month + long service awards
- Discounted driving lessons with local instructor
- Referral bonus scheme – financial incentives for successful referrals (criteria apply)
Equality and diversity
Amegreen is committed to being an organisation where people can be their authentic selves in a safe and inclusive environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are actively building diverse teams. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us.
Safeguarding and GDPR
Amegreen Children’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check and references. All employees must follow safeguarding and GDPR policies and complete mandatory training. Successful candidates will complete a thorough safeguarding onboarding process, including a full employment history review and an enhanced DBS check.
Lead HLTA for Special Needs: Learning & Wellbeing in Theale employer: Amegreen Childrens Services
Haywards Farm School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for both staff and students. With a strong focus on professional development, including regular CPD sessions and opportunities for further qualifications, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles. The school's commitment to inclusivity and well-being, combined with unique benefits such as free holiday accommodation and a health cash plan, makes it an attractive place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children with special educational needs.
Contact Details:
Amegreen Childrens Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead HLTA for Special Needs: Learning & Wellbeing in Theale
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Haywards Farm School and understand their approach to special needs education. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they value in a candidate, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific situations involving students with complex needs. Being ready with examples of your past experiences will demonstrate your capability and confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Haywards Farm School. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead HLTA for Special Needs: Learning & Wellbeing in Theale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting students with special needs shine through. We want to see how dedicated you are to making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in supporting children with complex needs. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how you've positively impacted students' learning and wellbeing.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Haywards Farm School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Amegreen Childrens Services
✨Know Your Students
Before the interview, take some time to research the specific needs of the students at Haywards Farm School. Understanding their challenges and how you can support them will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience with children who have special educational needs. Share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with students and supported their emotional and academic development.
✨Demonstrate Calm Leadership
Since the role requires calm leadership, think of scenarios where you've had to lead a group or manage behaviour under pressure. Highlight your strategies for maintaining a positive learning environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to personalised education pathways and how you can contribute to the team. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
