At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young learners and lead engaging activities in a friendly primary school environment.
- Company: St Mary's CE Primary School, part of Elements Diocesan Learning Trust.
- Benefits: Full-time role with a supportive team and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a vibrant school committed to inclusion and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a nurturing community.
- Qualifications: HLTA status or equivalent experience, strong Early Years background, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
Full Time | Fixed Term (1 year) | Start: September 2026
Grade 7 SCP 18 - 23
Working Hours: Full Time
Location: St Marys CE Primary School
Closing Date: 10/06/2026
Job Introduction
HLTA ST. MARY'S CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL
Part of Elements Diocesan Learning Trust
We are seeking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join our team for a fixed term contract for one academic year. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a warm, friendly and inclusive primary school, where relationships, high expectations and a strong sense of community are at the heart of all we do.
The successful candidate will have a strong background in Early Years and will play a key role in supporting our youngest learners. They must also be confident and flexible in delivering learning across the whole school, including covering classes where required to ensure continuity of learning.
We are looking for someone who is confident, flexible and friendly, and who aligns with our school values of trust, friendship and respect. The ability to work as part of a committed team, build positive relationships and contribute to a nurturing learning environment is essential.
Interviews will be held on Wednesday 17th June 2026.
Job Description
- Work in partnership with teachers across the school to support high-quality teaching and learning
- Lead learning activities for individuals, groups and whole classes under an agreed system of supervision
- Cover classes as required, ensuring continuity of learning and effective classroom management
- Prepare and deliver learning activities, particularly within Early Years, adapting to meet a range of needs
- Support pupils’ progress through observation, assessment and feedback to teachers
- Promote an inclusive, safe and stimulating learning environment where all pupils can thrive
- Use effective behaviour management strategies in line with school policy
- Work collaboratively with staff, contributing to planning, assessment and wider school provision
- Support the organisation of resources and learning environments to maximise pupil engagement
- Contribute to the wider life of the school
Person Specification
- HLTA status or equivalent experience
- Strong experience working in Early Years
- Experience of working across a range of primary age groups
- Ability to lead learning for whole classes and groups confidently
- Secure understanding of teaching and learning strategies across the primary curriculum
- Ability to assess pupil progress and provide effective feedback
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
- High expectations of all pupils and commitment to inclusion
- Flexible, adaptable and able to respond to the needs of the school
- Positive, friendly approach with the ability to build strong relationships
- Commitment to our values and vision as a church school
- Relevant Early Years qualification or additional training
- Experience of supporting pupils with SEND
- Experience of planning and delivering interventions
- Experience supporting staff or leading aspects of provision
Safeguarding
St Mary’s CofE Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment procedures, including an enhanced DBS check, references and online checks, in line with statutory guidance. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children; therefore, the post is subject to medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All applicants must be able to provide documentation to prove their right to work in the UK.
HLTA: Early Years Specialist & Class Support (Full-Time) employer: Hurst Green
St Mary's CE Primary School, part of the Elements Diocesan Learning Trust, is an exceptional employer that fosters a warm and inclusive work environment. With a strong emphasis on community values such as trust, friendship, and respect, employees are encouraged to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners. The school offers opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and a supportive atmosphere that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HLTA: Early Years Specialist & Class Support (Full-Time)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a good look at St Mary's website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and community activities. This will help you connect during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions for teaching assistants and prepare your answers. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and get comfortable talking about your experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! During the interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported early years learners in the past. Highlight your flexibility and teamwork skills, as these are key for the role at St Mary's.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the position and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a fantastic fit for their team!
We think you need these skills to ace HLTA: Early Years Specialist & Class Support (Full-Time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in Early Years and how it aligns with our school values. We want to see how you can contribute to our nurturing environment!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your HLTA status or equivalent experience! We’re looking for someone who can lead learning confidently, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Be Personable:We value a positive and friendly approach, so let your personality shine through in your written application. Show us how you build strong relationships and work collaboratively with others.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hurst Green
✨Know Your Early Years Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Early Years education. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support young learners and how you adapt your teaching methods to meet diverse needs.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with teachers and other staff, be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to build positive relationships and contribute to a supportive team environment.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
The job requires covering classes and adapting to various situations. Think of instances where you've had to be flexible in your approach and how you managed those changes while ensuring continuity of learning.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
St Mary’s values inclusion highly, so be ready to discuss your experience with SEND and how you've supported all pupils in your previous roles. Share specific examples of how you've created a nurturing and stimulating environment for every child.
