Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Communication & Language Development in Wheatley

Your Role

'Safety. Learning. Independence. Communication. Engagement'

John Watson School is looking to appoint a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) with a passion for supporting pupil communication to join our existing vibrant and friendly team in our all age special school. We are looking for someone who is experienced in special education and is confident, committed and a problem solver.

The successful candidates will compliment the team at our school, demonstrate a commitment to learning, and enjoy working with children of all abilities and ages.

John Watson School is a Special School with sites in Wheatley and Holton. We cater for children with Special Educational Needs from the ages of 2 - 19 years. We aim to create a happy, healthy and secure learning environment in which the needs of all pupils are met, enabling each child to reach their individual potential. We offer pupils opportunities for integrated educational experiences with their peer groups in the primary and secondary schools whose sites we share. We support pupils in developing their independence, social and communication skills that can be used at school, at home, and in the community.

Oxfordshire Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post involves the type of work with children and young people that requires applicants to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post. All cases are considered confidentially and according to the nature of the role and information disclosed.

We are judged Good by Ofsted (October 2022) and we are ambitious in our vision for the future provision for our pupils. We offer small classes, typically less than 10 pupils per class, working within large teams of support staff and additional NHS therapists.

What we Offer

1. Competitive salary
2. Comprehensive induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEND training
3. Paid wellbeing days and free flu vaccinations
4. On-site parking
5. Flexible working options (part-time and job share considered)
6. Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
7. Cycle to Work Scheme
8. Employee Assistance Programme
9. Cycle to Work scheme
10. Refer-a-friend bonus (earn up to £500)
11. A welcoming, therapeutic and highly supportive school culture

About the Role

1. Support high-quality teaching and learning across the school, with a particular focus on Communication and Language.
2. Plan, prepare and deliver learning activities for individuals, small groups and, where appropriate, whole classes.
3. Deliver communication-focused interventions to support pupils with SEND.
4. Develop pupils' communication, interaction, social skills and independence.
5. Support and embed a Total Communication approach across the school.
6. Work closely with teachers, therapists and other professionals to achieve positive outcomes for pupils.
7. Model effective communication strategies and provide guidance and support to colleagues.
8. Monitor, assess and record pupils' progress and development.
9. Support the development and implementation of individual learning and support plans.
10. Promote inclusion, independence and positive behaviour throughout the school.
11. Contribute to the wider school community, including supporting colleagues and new staff where appropriate.

About You

1. Experience working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
2. Experience supporting pupils to develop their communication, language, social skills and wider development.
3. A good understanding of child development, learning processes and positive approaches to supporting behaviour.
4. HLTA qualification or equivalent experience, with strong literacy and numeracy skills.
5. Good communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
6. Confident, proactive and able to use initiative, while knowing when to seek support.
7. Able to build positive and productive relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents/carers and other professionals.
8. A commitment to developing your own practice, sharing knowledge and contributing to the wider school community.

Safeguarding Information

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.