At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a student with specific needs and help them thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Akeley Wood School, part of the Blenheim family, known for its inclusive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Join a caring team that values kindness and celebrates individual strengths.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in a child's life while working in a beautiful school setting.
- Qualifications: HLTA qualification and experience supporting young people with additional needs.
The predicted salary is between 22170 - 22170 € per year.
Make a meaningful difference. Empower one child to thrive.
Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham
Salary: £22,170 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday | 40 hours per week | 8am–4.30pm
Contract: Fixed Term | Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026
Early applications are encouraged — we may interview and appoint before the advertised closing date.
Akeley Wood, part of the Blenheim family, is a thriving co‑educational independent school set across three beautiful campuses in the Buckinghamshire countryside. Welcoming pupils from 12 months to 18 years, we are a warm, inclusive and ambitious community where every child is known, valued and supported to achieve their very best. Our learning environments are designed to inspire — from specialist classrooms to woodland outdoor areas, creative studios and modern sports facilities. We are proud of our strong pastoral culture, our commitment to individual strengths and our belief that meaningful relationships drive student success. Joining Akeley Wood School means joining a caring, collaborative team who believe in high expectations, compassion and the transformative power of education.
The Role
We are seeking a well‑qualified and experienced Higher Level Learning Support Assistant (HLLSA) to provide 1:1 support for a student with specific needs outlined in their EHCP. This is an EHCP‑funded role, and although the contract is fixed term, it is anticipated to extend each academic year for as long as the student attends the school and continues to qualify for funded support.
Key Responsibilities
- Understand and support the specific needs of the pupil as outlined in their EHCP and support plan.
- Implement tailored strategies to help the pupil learn effectively and feel confident, supported and included.
- Carry out interventions, classroom support and pastoral support as directed by the SENDCo and Class Teacher.
- Promote positive behaviour and help create a calm, structured and encouraging learning environment.
- Adapt and provide differentiated resources to ensure the pupil can access the curriculum.
- Support the pupil in a range of settings: in class, during transition times, assemblies, break times and throughout the school day.
- Assist with the pupil’s social interactions, concentration, engagement and emotional regulation.
- Build a trusting, supportive relationship with the pupil and their family, maintaining excellent communication.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, specialists and the Learning Support Team to enhance teaching and learning.
- Reinforce self‑esteem and celebrate small steps of progress, helping the pupil develop confidence and independence.
- Contribute to the wider teaching team by bringing energy, compassion and proactive thinking.
About You
- A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) qualification.
- Experience supporting young people with additional needs.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relationships with pupils, parents and staff.
- A warm, empathetic and patient approach.
- Strong organisation, resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Confidence using ICT for learning support, communication and record‑keeping.
- A commitment to professional development and reflective practice.
- A belief that every child can succeed with the right support.
Why Join Akeley Wood Senior School?
You will join a caring, collaborative and forward‑thinking staff team who share a passion for supporting young people and enabling them to thrive. You can expect:
- A supportive, nurturing working environment
- Strong pastoral values and a culture built on kindness
- Opportunities for professional growth and training
- A beautiful school setting with excellent facilities
- A team that celebrates individuality and the power of relationships
Safeguarding Commitment
Akeley Wood School and Blenheim Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to follow safeguarding policies and undertake relevant training. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media checks. We may close this vacancy early if a high volume of suitable applications is received.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) employer: Beech Hall School Ltd
Akeley Wood School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and collaborative environment where staff are valued and supported in their professional growth. Located in the picturesque Buckinghamshire countryside, the school boasts excellent facilities and a strong commitment to individual strengths, ensuring that every child can thrive. Joining our team means being part of a community that prioritises kindness, high expectations, and the transformative power of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Akeley Wood School and its values. When you walk into that interview, show us you understand our commitment to empowering every child. It’ll make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your responses! Think about how your experience aligns with the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant. We want to hear specific examples of how you've supported students with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! We’re looking for someone who brings warmth and empathy to the role. Let your personality shine through in the interview — it’s all about building those meaningful relationships!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience with young people who have additional needs. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how you’ve made an impact.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We encourage early applications as we might start interviewing before the closing date. Get your application in through our website today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Beech Hall School Ltd
✨Know the EHCP Inside Out
Make sure you understand the specific needs outlined in the pupil's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Familiarise yourself with how these needs translate into practical support strategies. This will show your commitment to making a meaningful difference.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with students in the past. Highlight your warm and patient approach, as this is crucial for supporting young people with additional needs.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Talk about your experience working with teachers, specialists, and parents. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and work as part of a team, as collaboration is key in creating a supportive learning environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific situations, such as promoting positive behaviour or adapting resources for a pupil. Think through your responses in advance to demonstrate your proactive thinking and problem-solving skills.
