SEND HLTA in Preston

Location: Preston Fishwick Primary School, Downing Street, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 4RH. Tel: 01772 491402. School website: www.fishwick.lancs.sch.uk.

Overview: Due to the continued development of our provision, we are seeking a highly committed, resilient and skilled HLTA to join our SEND Hub team. This role involves working with children who present with a wide range of complex and often overlapping needs. It is a highly rewarding role, but also one that requires energy, flexibility, emotional resilience and a deep commitment to inclusive practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support pupils with complex SEND including autism spectrum conditions (ASC), demand‑avoidant profiles (PDA), ADHD, social, emotional and mental health needs, non‑verbal communication and significant speech, language and communication needs, sensory processing differences, sensory regulation needs, pica and complex behaviours, and intimate care and personal care needs.
• Work as part of a skilled team to deliver a functional/Equals‑style curriculum, use or learn a Total Communication approach, and implement behavioural support strategies.
• Develop a calm, structured and predictable environment to support pupils’ independence, communication and engagement.
• Provide high‑quality CPD and support for colleagues on SEND, communication strategies and behaviour support.

Essential Qualifications:

• HLTA qualification (or equivalent).
• Experience or willingness to work within a functional/Equals‑style curriculum.
• Strong de‑escalation skills, emotional resilience and adaptability.

Essential Experience:

• Supporting learning through a functional, highly adapted curriculum including Equals.
• Using or willingness to learn a Total Communication approach.
• Strong experience working with children with complex SEND needs.
• Practical understanding of ASC, ADHD and sensory needs.
• Confidence in supporting pupils with personal/intimate care needs.

Desirable Experience:

• Delivering support using a Total Communication approach (visuals, objects of reference, AAC where appropriate).
• Using de‑escalation strategies and relational approaches to support behaviour and emotional regulation.
• Creating a calm, structured and predictable environment.
• Supporting pupils to develop independence, communication and engagement.

Conditions:

• Enhanced DBS check.
• Satisfactory references.
• Pre‑employment checks in line with safer recruitment guidance.
• All appointments subject to a DBS search, risk assessment and safeguarding checks.
• This position is term‑time only; salary quoted is full‑time equivalent and will be paid on a pro‑rata basis.

Legal and Equality:

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community. The post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. All disabled applicants meeting essential criteria will be interviewed. Please note that you must be legally entitled to work in the UK.