At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with complex needs and deliver engaging learning experiences.
- Company: The Specialist Trust, a compassionate SEN school in beautiful Surrey.
- Benefits: Free lunch, parking, retention bonuses, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a stunning countryside setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Teaching Assistant or willingness to train as an HLTA.
The predicted salary is between 29600 - 32763 £ per year.
Location: Cranleigh
Salary: Qualified HLTA: £29,600 - £32,763
Salary: Unqualified HLTA: £25,632 - £28,412
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time
Hours: 36 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (term time plus 5 INSET days)
Closing date: 8th June 2026
Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant ready to take the next step in your career? Or an existing HLTA looking for a rewarding new opportunity? At The Specialist Trust, they are seeking a compassionate and motivated Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join their dedicated education team as soon as possible. Based in Cranleigh, Surrey – midway between Guildford and Horsham – The Trust is a specialist SEN school, college, children’s home and adult supported living provision. Set within a beautiful 23‑acre site on the edge of the Surrey Hills, they support children and young people aged 5‑19 with complex learning disabilities, autism, severe social communication difficulties and behaviours that challenge.
About the role
This is a class‑based HLTA role where you will work closely alongside the class teacher to deliver engaging learning experiences and contribute to lesson planning and preparation. You will also help monitor student progress and provide mentoring and guidance to Teaching Assistants within the classroom team. Their students have a wide range of complex needs and require patient, consistent and compassionate support to help them develop communication, independence and life skills. You will play a vital role in helping them learn, grow and achieve their individual potential. As part of the role, you may also support students with personal care needs to ensure they remain comfortable and supported throughout the school day. Full training and ongoing support will be provided, including positive behaviour support and physical intervention training where required. Mental, emotional and physical resilience, teamwork and a proactive approach are essential qualities for this role.
Working hours
- Monday: 8:30am - 4pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: 8:30am - 4:15pm
- Friday: 8:30am - 3:45pm (plus 30 minutes per week worked flexibly to meet operational needs, with a 30‑minute unpaid break each day).
This role is for 38 weeks term time plus 5 CPD days.
Who they're looking for
- Qualified HLTAs
- Experienced Teaching Assistants looking to progress into an HLTA role
- Unqualified HLTAs willing to undertake relevant training
Due to their semi‑rural location, access to your own transport is desirable, as Cranleigh does not have a train station.
Why join The Specialist Trust?
- Free lunch during term time, prepared by their in‑house catering team
- Ample free onsite parking
- £1,000 retention bonus for new employees:
- £250 after 1 month
- £250 after 1 year
- £500 after 18 months
- Life insurance and Medical Cashplan
- Comprehensive induction programme
- Regular training, supervision and 1:1 mentoring
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme with confidential wellbeing and counselling support
- Access to Adult Mental Health First Aiders and Occupational Health support
- Discounted fitness classes with Surrey Fitness Camps and Go Fest Active Studio
- Excellent opportunities for career progression and promotion
- A supportive and welcoming multidisciplinary team environment
- The opportunity to work within a beautiful countryside setting on the edge of the Surrey Hills
Please note that they are unable to sponsor applicants to relocate from overseas or convert study visas into work visas at this time. Interviews and selection activities will take place shortly afterwards and will include teaching a prepared lesson on a topic provided in advance. If appointed, you will be required to complete Team Teach positive behaviour support training as part of your induction prior to commencing employment (refreshed annually). The Specialist Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This role requires an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for The Specialist Trust, please do not hesitate to apply.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant employer: Job Search Place Limited
The Specialist Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Higher Level Teaching Assistants in the picturesque setting of Cranleigh, Surrey. With a strong focus on employee growth, comprehensive training, and a commitment to wellbeing, staff enjoy benefits such as free lunches, ample parking, and a generous retention bonus, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with complex needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research The Specialist Trust and understand their values, mission, and the specific needs of their students. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your teaching demo! Since you'll need to teach a prepared lesson, rehearse it multiple times. Make sure you can engage the students and adapt your style to meet their diverse needs. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current staff! If possible, reach out to current or former employees to get insights about the role and the team dynamics. They might share tips that could give you an edge during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site for the best chance of being noticed. Plus, it shows you're proactive and keen to join our amazing team at The Specialist Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We want to see how you can bring your unique strengths to the Higher Level Teaching Assistant role!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of our students.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to read and understand.
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 get you into the process smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with complex learning disabilities and autism, as well as the importance of supporting their communication and independence.
✨Prepare a Lesson Plan
Since you'll be required to teach a prepared lesson during the interview, take this seriously! Choose a topic that showcases your teaching style and ability to engage students. Practice delivering it clearly and confidently.
✨Showcase Your Compassion
This role is all about patience and support. Be ready to share examples from your experience where you've demonstrated compassion and resilience, especially in challenging situations. This will show them you're the right fit for their dedicated team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about their training programmes or how they support staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and commitment to growing within the team.
