At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support learning activities for students with complex needs.
- Company: Outstanding specialist SEND school in Bury, valued for its skilled staff.
- Benefits: Competitive weekly rate, full-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for leadership and professional growth in a dynamic school.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: HLTA status or equivalent experience in SEND settings required.
The predicted salary is between 31200 - 36400 £ per year.
Area: Bury, Greater Manchester
Start Date: ASAP / September 2026
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Daily Rate: £600 - £700 per week (depending on experience)
Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm, Term time
About the School
We're working with an outstanding specialist SEND school in Bury that sets the bar high - for its students and its staff. With five bespoke learning pathways serving young people aged 11–19 with a wide range of complex needs, this is a school where skilled, experienced support staff are genuinely valued and given the autonomy to make a difference. If you're ready to step up and lead, this is your opportunity.
About the Role
As an HLTA, you'll bring a higher level of expertise, independence, and leadership to the support team. You'll plan and deliver learning activities, lead groups, supervise classes, and act as a key point of contact for students, families, and colleagues. This is a role for someone who has earned their experience in SEND settings and is ready to take on greater responsibility - while never losing sight of the individual young people at the heart of the work.
What We’re Looking For
- HLTA status or equivalent experience in a senior SEND support role
- Substantial experience working with young people with complex SEND needs in a school setting
- Confident planning and delivering learning activities independently
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide and support colleagues
- Deep understanding of ASD, SEMH, PMLD, SLD, and associated needs
- Excellent communication skills across students, families, and professionals
- CACHE Level 3 or above, or equivalent qualification is desirable
To Be Eligible You Must
- Hold Right to Work in the UK
- Have an enhanced DBS certificate already on the update service or be willing to apply for a new one
- Provide two professional references from child-related roles
- Be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
Ready to make a real difference? Apply today by sending us your most up-to-date CV. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - SEND Specialist in Bury St Edmunds employer: Prospero Teaching
Contact Detail:
Prospero Teaching Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - SEND Specialist in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role of an HLTA. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for SEND during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about the students' well-being and learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - SEND Specialist in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in SEND settings and showcases your leadership skills. We want to see how you've made a difference in previous roles, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working with young people with complex needs and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our school.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Be sure to mention your HLTA status or equivalent experience clearly. If you have any relevant qualifications like CACHE Level 3, let us know – we love seeing that commitment to professional development!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospero Teaching
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support students with complex needs. This shows that you’re not just familiar with the terminology, but that you can apply it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an HLTA, leadership is key. Think of examples where you've led a team or guided colleagues in a SEND setting. Be ready to share how you’ve motivated others and created a positive learning environment. This will demonstrate your readiness for the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to SEND. For instance, how would you handle a challenging behaviour from a student? Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your problem-solving skills and empathy towards students’ needs.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent communication is crucial in this role. During the interview, make sure you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use examples from your experience to illustrate your points, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question.