At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teaching and learning for pupils with additional needs in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Community interest company focused on alternative education and youth support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, paid training, and employee assistance programmes.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to positive learning experiences and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives through inclusive education.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with SEMH needs and strong literacy/numeracy skills required.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 27690 £ per year.
Location: Central Bristol
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), term-time only (plus 7 additional days in school holidays as per Bristol City Council term dates)
Salary: £26,000 – £27,690 per annum (depending on experience)
About the Role
As an HLTA, you will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to support teaching and learning across the provision. You will play a key role in delivering targeted interventions and supporting pupils both in and out of the classroom.
- Planning and delivering small group learning activities and interventions
- Supporting 1:1 learning support where required
- Working alongside teachers and SEN staff to improve pupil engagement and outcomes
- Supporting pupils with SEMH needs, emotional regulation, and behaviour
- Using trauma‑informed approaches to promote positive learning experiences
- Contributing to assessment, monitoring, and progress tracking
- Supporting inclusion, independence, and self‑esteem
- Providing feedback on pupil progress to teaching and SEN teams
- Assisting with pastoral support and behaviour strategies
Ideal Candidate
- Has experience working with children or young people with SEMH or additional needs
- Holds HLTA status or equivalent qualification (or is willing to work towards accreditation)
- Has strong literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE Grade 4/C or above or equivalent)
- Is confident delivering interventions and small group teaching
- Can build strong, positive relationships with vulnerable learners
- Is calm, resilient, and proactive in managing challenging situations
- Is passionate about inclusive education and improving outcomes for young people
About the Organisation
This is a community interest company with a strong social mission, providing alternative education and youth support services across Bristol and surrounding areas. Their approach is rooted in trauma‑informed practice, inclusion, and relational working, ensuring young people feel safe, supported, and able to succeed.
Staff Benefits
- 4% employer pension contribution
- Paid training and development opportunities
- Employee assistance programme
- Travel loans and cycle‑to‑work scheme
- Clinical supervision and trauma‑informed support
Legal and Compliance
Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and as such we do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such, you will be required to provide an up to date DBS, or be prepared to allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, in addition to other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines. If the position you are applying for involves working with children or vulnerable adults, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Alternative Provision employer: Axcis Education Recruitment
As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) with our community interest company in Central Bristol, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact on the lives of young people. We offer a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development, with benefits such as paid training, a generous pension contribution, and access to trauma-informed support. Join us in fostering an inclusive environment where your passion for education can thrive and contribute to meaningful change in the community.
Contact Details:
Axcis Education Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Alternative Provision
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH or alternative provisions. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting vulnerable learners and trauma-informed approaches. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've supported students with SEMH needs or delivered effective interventions. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Alternative Provision
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with SEMH needs and inclusive education. We want to see how your skills align with the role of an HLTA, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experiences!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable learners shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference in young people's lives, so share your motivation and commitment to inclusive education.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and suitability for the role.
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 the position. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our mission and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at Axcis Education Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant and the specific needs of pupils with SEMH. Brush up on trauma-informed practices and be ready to discuss how you would implement these strategies in your work.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children or young people, especially those with additional needs. Highlight any specific interventions you've delivered and the positive outcomes that resulted.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on demonstrating your ability to build strong relationships with vulnerable learners. Share anecdotes that showcase your calmness and resilience in challenging situations, as well as your passion for inclusive education.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the organisation's approach to supporting pupils and their commitment to staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
