Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Reading and Literacy in Bridgwater

Bridgwater College Academy (BCA) are seeking a dedicated and motivated Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team and enhance literacy provision across the Academy. In this role, you will deliver structured reading interventions, including Thinking Reading, to support students with significant reading and decoding difficulties. You will plan and lead sessions independently, assess pupil progress and help students build the skills and confidence they need to access the wider curriculum. Close collaboration with teachers, SEND staff and families is essential, ensuring each student receives effective, joined‑up support. Your work will involve maintaining accurate records, promoting positive behaviour, and contributing to intervention planning and review processes.

Responsibilities

• Deliver structured reading interventions, including Thinking Reading, to support students with significant reading and decoding difficulties.
• Plan and lead sessions independently, assess pupil progress and help students build the skills and confidence to access the wider curriculum.
• Collaborate closely with teachers, SEND staff and families to ensure each student receives joined‑up support.
• Maintain accurate records, promote positive behaviour, and contribute to intervention planning and review processes.

Qualifications

• HLTA Level 4 qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Strong literacy understanding and experience supporting pupils in an educational setting.
• Experience delivering reading or literacy interventions is desirable, with excellent communication skills and a commitment to helping young people overcome barriers to learning.

Contract and Hours

• 27.5 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (Term time, plus INSET days)
• BTCT Points 10-12, Starting on Point 10.
• Actual Salary: £18,443.43 per annum
• Permanent

What We Offer

• A generous local government pension scheme.
• Access to an Employee Rewards package, including high street discounts and a dedicated Staff Wellbeing Centre.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• The chance to be part of a passionate and collaborative school community.

Application and Closing Date

• Closing Date for applications: Midnight, Thursday 12th February 2026.

Equality, Safeguarding and Additional Information

We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 23%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. We believe in work‑life balance and offer flexible working options where possible, including part‑time hours and/or job shares, which we are happy to discuss. We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secures the best outcomes for our students. We welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of under‑represented groups and in particular those who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships. Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. A criminal disclosure check will be requested for any applicant who is offered a position.