At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and lead engaging interventions in a vibrant primary school.
- Company: Join Mercia Learning Trust, a thriving partnership of schools in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and able to inspire students with high standards.
- Other info: Be part of a community focused on academic excellence and character development.
The predicted salary is between 31015 - 33673 £ per year.
Location: Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: Grade 5 £31,015 to £33,673
Posted: 16th April 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Expires: 3rd May 2026 11:59 PM
Actual salary: £26,677 to £28,963 (with under five years' service)
Contract term: 37 hours per week, 39 weeks per year, permanent
Closing date: Midnight Sunday 3 May 2026
Mercia Learning Trust
Mercia Learning Trust is a successful partnership of four primary and three secondary schools located in the south-west of Sheffield. Established in 2012, with one secondary school, our trust has grown to serving over 5000 pupils, with 650 staff.
- To empower everyone in our communities, especially the most disadvantaged, to succeed.
- We are kind - showing care and supporting each other.
- We have integrity - doing the right thing and always putting children first.
- We work with diligence - overcoming obstacles and having no excuses.
- We run schools that focus on academic excellence, cultural capital and the development of character.
- A culture of excellence – high standards shaped by clarity, not control.
- Academic focus – empowering all children through an exceptional curriculum.
- Purposeful collaboration – relationships built on trust, reducing sub-optimisation and driving collective success.
Our staff are a crucial part of our trust, just like our pupils. We are devoted to recruiting, training, retaining and taking good care of our highly skilled and dedicated team.
Woodlands Primary School
Woodlands Primary School is a 2-form entry primary and nursery for children aged 2-11 in a vibrant South Sheffield community. This popular and over-subscribed school has around 500 pupils. In February 2022, Ofsted graded our school as strongly Good.
The role
We are seeking to appoint a highly skilled HLTA to join our hardworking and supportive team. The role will be varied and will also include supporting teachers within a classroom and leading interventions.
The candidate
The successful candidate should be enthusiastic and knowledgeable, keen to work in partnership with current staff and able to work under instruction as well as having the ability to use their initiative. They will challenge and excite our children and have the ability to consistently deliver high quality learning experiences. Imaginative and committed, they should have passion for the role, high standards of professionalism and high expectations of the children. They will have the vision, enthusiasm, and drive to build on the strong foundations that already exist within the school.
Safeguarding Statement:
Woodlands Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
HLTA in Sheffield employer: Merciatrust
Contact Detail:
Merciatrust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HLTA in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research Woodlands Primary School and Mercia Learning Trust. Understanding their mission and culture will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips about the school and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common HLTA questions. Think about how you can demonstrate your skills in supporting teachers and leading interventions. Use specific examples from your experience to showcase your passion and commitment to high-quality learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education!
We think you need these skills to ace HLTA in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the HLTA role. We want to see your passion for education and how you can contribute to our vibrant community at Woodlands Primary School.
Showcase Your Experience: Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience! Whether it’s classroom support or leading interventions, we’re keen to know how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to their success.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merciatrust
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Woodlands Primary School and Mercia Learning Trust. Understand their commitment to empowering communities and their focus on academic excellence. This will help you align your answers with their values and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
As a HLTA, you'll likely face scenario-based questions during your interview. Think about past experiences where you've supported teachers or led interventions. Prepare specific examples that highlight your initiative, creativity, and ability to deliver high-quality learning experiences.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm is key! Make sure to express your passion for working with children and your commitment to their success. Share what excites you about the role and how you plan to contribute to the school's culture of excellence. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask insightful questions. Inquire about the school's approach to collaboration among staff or how they support professional development. This shows that you're not only interested in the position but also in contributing to the school's growth and success.