At a Glance
- Tasks: Support primary-aged students and help create a positive learning environment.
- Company: Join the innovative Maiden Erlegh Trust and make a difference in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and extra days off for special events.
- Other info: Full training provided; great career growth opportunities within the Trust.
- Why this job: Be part of a new school that values community, inclusion, and respect.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills and a passion for engaging with young people.
The predicted salary is between 18409 - 30559 € per year.
Location: Woodward Close, Winnersh, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG41 5LP
Contract Type: Permanent
Contract Term: Full‑time
Salary: £18,409.00 Annually (Actual) FTE £30,559; 25 hours per week, term‑time only + 5 INSET days + £1,538 SEN allowance
Closing Date: Midnight, Fri 17 Apr 2026
Start Date: ASAP
Positions Available: 1
About This Role
- We are keen to find dynamic, committed and hard‑working individuals with:
- Good communication skills
- The ability to build positive relationships with primary‑aged students
- Self‑confidence and a positive attitude
- Excellent time management and effective organisational skills
Perhaps you are in a similar role already, or maybe you are thinking about teacher training in the future? Maiden Erlegh Institute can help support and develop you in line with your career aspirations. Our People Development Curriculum provides professional development pathways for every role within the Trust, both teaching and support staff. We are also able to support those looking for a pathway into teaching. Full training will be provided to carry out the role; we will endeavour as far as possible to match cover to your specialist area(s) if any. Specialist areas are not a prerequisite for the role, it will suit someone with a natural ability and enthusiasm to engage and build rapport with young people.
About Oak Tree School
Newly opened in September 2023, Oak Tree School, based in Winnersh, is an exciting collaborative project which will provide a safe and happy learning environment for 150 learners from Year 1 to Year 13, with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) for Autism Spectrum Conditions and associated complex needs, including Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). These children and young people have boundless potential so, at the heart of Oak Tree School’s provision, will be a rich and stimulating curriculum, specialist personal development education and targeted therapeutic programmes delivered by talented and specialist staff.
The impetus for this project has been a partnership between Brighter Futures for Children, Reading Borough Council and Wokingham Borough Council as part of their commitment to providing additional special school places for local children close to their own communities. Community, inclusion and respect are key Maiden Erlegh Trust values and they underpin our vision for Oak Tree School. As the project progresses, we will continue work with our partners and listen to parents and children to realise our vision. Only in this way can we meet the needs of every child and help each one to reach their potential.
Linked to our community values, the school will also offer a range of outreach programmes to support SEND pupils in mainstream schools. We have developed a Trust‑wide Special & AP Hub, providing opportunities to connect with staff members in our specialist settings, where we collaborate, learn and innovate together. The mission is to enhance the quality of education and support we provide to students with diverse needs. We encourage open communication, empathy, and respect, at all levels, as we believe that a supportive and inclusive atmosphere is essential for growth and development.
About The Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is committed to developing a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative community of highly effective schools that deliver excellent education opportunities for the children and young people of the communities we serve. Through our work we will ensure that our children are equipped with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to deal with the demands of an ever‑changing world. The Trust currently comprises 9 schools in the local area, with a variety of settings including primary, secondary, special and a PRU. As a Trust, we encourage professional development at all levels through the use of cross‑Trust networks to share best practice and ideas. We also actively encourage the promotion of staff to different roles within the Trust and to different settings in line with their career aspirations.
Benefits
Further information about some of the staff benefits that Maiden Erlegh Trust offers its employees can be found on our website. Staff Wellbeing is very important to us. As a member of Maiden Erlegh Trust staff these are just some of the examples of how we show our appreciation to staff:
- We operate a system of ‘ME days’ allowing staff to request an additional day off per year to attend special events such as children’s sports days & graduations, family and friends’ weddings.
- CPD is available for all staff at all levels.
- Free flu vaccinations are offered to all staff.
- Free eye tests are provided for eligible staff.
If you believe that this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and substantially contribute to an exciting future for our students, then you are encouraged to explore further by contacting recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for a more detailed discussion, if required. Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time. We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and successful references.
Secondary HLTA at Oak Tree School in Winnersh employer: Maiden Erlegh Trust
At Oak Tree School, part of the Maiden Erlegh Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values community, inclusion, and professional growth. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for career development through our People Development Curriculum. Located in Winnersh, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with diverse needs while enjoying benefits such as additional leave for personal events and comprehensive professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Secondary HLTA at Oak Tree School in Winnersh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Oak Tree School and its values. When you walk into that interview, show them you understand their mission and how you can contribute to their community-focused approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since they’re looking for someone with good communication abilities, try role-playing common interview questions with a friend. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! Be ready to share examples of how you've built positive relationships with students in the past. Your passion for working with young people will shine through and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and the school.
We think you need these skills to ace Secondary HLTA at Oak Tree School in Winnersh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for working with young people and how you can contribute to our vibrant community at Oak Tree School.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Secondary HLTA. Highlight your communication skills, ability to build relationships, and any relevant experience you have. We love seeing how your unique background fits into our mission!
Show Enthusiasm:We’re looking for dynamic individuals, so make sure your enthusiasm comes across in your writing! Share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can help our students thrive in a supportive environment.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you’re detail-oriented and serious about joining our team. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Maiden Erlegh Trust
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand Oak Tree School's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to community, inclusion, and respect. This will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Secondary HLTA, strong communication skills are essential. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully built relationships with students or colleagues. Be ready to discuss how you can engage primary-aged students and support their learning effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Time management and organisation are key in this role. Think of specific instances where you managed multiple tasks or projects efficiently. You might want to share how you prioritised your workload or adapted to changing circumstances, as this will highlight your ability to thrive in a dynamic school environment.
✨Express Your Enthusiasm for Development
Oak Tree School values professional development, so be prepared to discuss your career aspirations and how you see yourself growing within the Trust. Mention any interest in teacher training or further qualifications, as this shows your commitment to personal growth and contributing positively to the school.
