At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with complex needs in a hands-on learning environment.
- Company: Join a large multi-academy trust dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, training opportunities, wellbeing support, and free lunches.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team and beautiful working environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: HLTA qualification or experience as a Teaching Assistant.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are looking for a proactive and confident Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join a specialist education setting within our trust. This is a unique role that blends hands-on, work-related learning with classroom support, offering an opportunity to help young people gain practical skills and confidence for the future.
About the Position
This is a permanent role supporting students aged 5–19 who have complex learning needs, communication differences and a range of social or emotional challenges. You will play a central part in delivering meaningful, functional learning experiences based around a café/workplace model. As part of the HLTA team, you will also provide cover for lessons, support teaching staff and contribute to planning and preparation.
Work-Based Learning Support
- Helping students engage in structured work-related activities
- Building key workplace skills such as teamwork, independence and communication
- Leading delegated sessions that stretch, motivate and challenge
- Supporting day-to-day café operations, including organising rotas, taking orders and assisting kitchen processes
HLTA Responsibilities
- Delivering learning to individuals, small groups or whole classes
- Providing short-term cover for teacher absence
- Contributing to planning and resource development
- Mentoring and supporting Teaching Assistants
This is a hands-on position working with learners who may experience frustration or emotional dysregulation. Full training is provided to develop safe support strategies, including emotional regulation approaches and positive intervention techniques. Some students may require personal care.
Hours and Working Pattern
36 hours per week, term-time only (38 weeks) plus 5 CPD/INSET days. Typical hours:
- Monday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
- Tuesday–Thursday: 8:30am – 4:15pm
- Friday: 8:30am – 3:45pm
Plus 30 flexible minutes weekly to meet operational needs. Daily unpaid break: 30 minutes.
Who We’re Looking For
You may be:
- A qualified HLTA
- An experienced Teaching Assistant keen to progress and train as an HLTA
We are seeking someone who is:
- Calm, resilient and able to provide clear boundaries
- Positive, encouraging and committed to helping students achieve
- Confident in supporting behaviour, communication and wellbeing
- Able to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team
Due to the semi-rural location, own transport is desirable.
What the Trust Offers
As part of a large multi-academy trust, you will benefit from:
- Comprehensive induction and ongoing training
- 1:1 mentoring and supervision
- Access to trust resources, networks and professional development
- Employee wellbeing support, including a 24/7 assistance programme
- Medical cashplan and life insurance
- Free onsite parking
- Free staff lunch during term time
- Retention bonus for new starters (£1,000 paid in instalments)
- Opportunities for career progression in a specialist setting
- Discounts on local fitness classes and wellness activities
- A welcoming, supportive team and a beautiful, spacious working environment
Recruitment Information
Closing Date: 22 April 2026
Interviews will include delivering a short, prepared learning activity. Successful candidates will complete specialist behaviour support training as part of induction.
Safeguarding: The school is highly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. All staff must hold or be willing to obtain an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services.
HLTA SEMH in Horsham employer: Pink Tile Education Ltd
Join our large multi-academy trust as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in the Cranleigh area, where you will be part of a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to empowering students with complex learning needs. We offer comprehensive training, career progression opportunities, and a welcoming work environment, along with benefits such as free onsite parking, staff lunches during term time, and a retention bonus for new starters. Experience meaningful employment while making a real difference in the lives of young people in a beautiful, spacious setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HLTA SEMH in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research the multi-academy trust and understand their approach to education. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your teaching activity! Since interviews will include delivering a short, prepared learning activity, make sure you rehearse it. Keep it engaging and interactive to showcase your skills and ability to connect with students.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current staff or alumni! Reach out on LinkedIn or through social media to get insights about the role and the working environment. They might share tips that could give you an edge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application directly, so make sure you submit it there. It shows initiative and helps us keep track of your application more efficiently.
We think you need these skills to ace HLTA SEMH in Horsham
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 SEMH role. We want to see how you can contribute to our unique work-based learning environment!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting students with complex needs shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in young people's lives!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities of the HLTA position. We appreciate clarity!
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 ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pink Tile Education Ltd
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the HLTA SEMH role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around supporting students with complex needs and delivering engaging learning activities. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Prepare a Short Learning Activity
Since interviews will include delivering a short, prepared learning activity, think about how you can make it interactive and engaging. Choose a topic that showcases your teaching style and ability to connect with students. Practise delivering it to friends or family to get comfortable with your presentation.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
In this role, calmness, resilience, and the ability to set clear boundaries are crucial. Be ready to share examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated these qualities, especially in challenging situations. This will highlight your suitability for working with students who may have emotional or social challenges.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the specific needs of the students you'll be working with. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
