At a Glance
- Tasks: Empower a child with specific needs through tailored support and encouragement.
- Company: Akeley Wood School, a warm and inclusive independent school in Buckinghamshire.
- Benefits: Professional development opportunities and a beautiful school environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to helping every child succeed.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: HLTA qualification and experience supporting young people with additional needs.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Empower one child to thrive.
Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham
Hours: Monday to Friday | 40 hours per week | 8am-4.30pm
Contract: Fixed Term | Term Time Only
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. Joining Akeley Wood School means joining a caring, collaborative team who believe in high expectations, compassion and the transformative power of education.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Requirements:
- 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.
- 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.
- Opportunities for professional growth and training.
- A beautiful school setting with excellent facilities.
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.
Full or Part Time High Level Teaching Assistant employer: Blenheim Schools
Akeley Wood School offers a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported to reach their full potential. As part of the Blenheim family, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture, opportunities for professional development, and access to beautiful facilities in the picturesque Buckinghamshire countryside. Joining our team means being part of a passionate community dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Full or Part Time High Level Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Akeley Wood School on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give us insights into the school culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to supporting students with additional needs. We should also think about specific examples from our experience that showcase our skills in building relationships and promoting positive behaviour.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our passion for education! During the interview, let’s share why we believe every child can succeed and how we’ve helped students thrive in the past. Authenticity goes a long way in making a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email expressing our appreciation for the opportunity can keep us fresh in their minds. Plus, it shows we’re genuinely interested in joining their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Full or Part Time High Level Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for education and supporting young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in a child's life!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children who have additional needs. We love seeing specific examples of how you've supported students in the past!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and shows you're serious about joining our amazing team at Akeley Wood School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blenheim Schools
✨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 daily support strategies. This will show your commitment to empowering the child and demonstrate that you're ready to implement tailored approaches.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
During the interview, highlight your excellent communication skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've built relationships with pupils, parents, and staff in the past. Use examples that illustrate your ability to foster trust and collaboration, which are key in a supportive role like this.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Be ready to talk about how you adapt resources and strategies to meet diverse learning needs. Share specific instances where you've successfully modified your approach to help a student engage with the curriculum. This will show that you can create a calm and encouraging learning environment.
✨Emphasise Professional Development
Express your commitment to ongoing professional development and reflective practice. Mention any relevant training or experiences that have shaped your approach to supporting young people with additional needs. This will convey your dedication to growth and improvement in your role.
