At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and inspire children in a nurturing, trauma-informed educational environment.
- Company: Join the dedicated team at Willow Haven, Warrington.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive training, a pension scheme, and employee support programmes.
- Other info: Flexible hours, term time only, with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in young people's lives and help them thrive.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for supporting young learners.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our dedicated team at Willow Haven, Warrington. This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people by supporting their learning within a nurturing, trauma‑informed educational environment.
About the Role
As an HLTA at Willow Haven, you will play a vital role in supporting teaching and learning both within our school base and, where required, in an outreach capacity. No two days are the same. You will work with children and young people who may not be able to access mainstream education and require a flexible, therapeutic, and creative approach to learning. You will contribute to a personalised curriculum that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and helps learners re‑engage with education in a safe and supportive environment. Working closely with teachers and a multi‑disciplinary team, you will help deliver high‑quality sessions tailored to individual needs.
Our Approach
Willow Haven is committed to trauma‑informed practice, ensuring that every young person feels respected, heard, and understood. You will work within a therapeutic model supported by ongoing training, reflective practice, and regular opportunities for professional development. Many of the children we support have experienced instability or barriers to education. We are therefore seeking individuals who are resilient, compassionate, and passionate about creating positive change in a values‑driven setting.
Working With Us
- Support and deliver sessions for children within Warrington and surrounding areas
- Create safe, nurturing learning environments built around each young person’s needs
- Contribute to an academic, vocational, SEND, and therapeutic curriculum
- Work as part of a skilled, supportive multi‑disciplinary team
- Provide consistent, reliable, child‑centred support that helps young people thrive
Hours of Work
Monday to Friday 08:30 – 16:30
37.5 hours per week
Term time only, following local authority academic dates
Why Join Willow Haven and Five Rivers?
- Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme
- Company pension scheme
- Comprehensive training with in‑house and external providers
- Employee Support Programmes
- Blue Light Card
- Enhanced maternity package (after 1 year of service)
- Refer a Friend and Refer a Foster Carer bonus schemes
- Long service recognition awards
What We’re Looking For
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent IT and organisational skills
- Confidence working directly with children, families, and professionals
- Effective active listening and de‑escalation skills
- A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
- Right to Work in the UK
Experience in specialist or alternative education is beneficial, but we also welcome applicants with transferable skills and a passion for helping young people flourish.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Willow Haven in Warrington employer: Five Rivers Child Care Ltd
Sky Vale School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a nurturing and inspiring environment dedicated to therapeutic education. With a strong commitment to professional development, extensive training opportunities, and a supportive work culture, we empower our staff to grow their careers while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. Located in the beautiful Mendips, our school provides a tranquil setting that fosters creativity and collaboration among educators.
Contact Details:
Five Rivers Child Care Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Willow Haven in Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education or related fields. Let them know you're on the hunt for an HLTA role at Willow Haven. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to teaching assistants. Think about how you would handle various scenarios with children, especially those who may need extra support. Show us your passion for creating positive change!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your unique skills! Whether it’s your experience with trauma-informed practices or your creative approach to learning, make sure to highlight what makes you stand out as a candidate for the HLTA position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining the Willow Haven team and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Willow Haven in Warrington
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, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to education and child development.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the HLTA role at Willow Haven. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills align with our values and approach. This shows us that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on communicating your qualifications and experiences effectively. A well-structured application makes it easier for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
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 role. Plus, it’s super easy to do, so go ahead and take that step towards joining our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Five Rivers Child Care Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant and the specific needs of the children at Willow Haven. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and how they apply to education. This will show your commitment and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your communication, organisational, and active listening skills. Think about times when you've successfully supported children or worked in a team, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with children. Practice your responses to common challenges faced in alternative education settings, focusing on your compassionate and flexible approach.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach and the support systems in place for both staff and students. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if Willow Haven is the right fit for you.
