At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' learning and wellbeing through engaging activities and collaboration with teachers.
- Company: Join the dynamic Maiden Erlegh Trust, dedicated to high-quality education for all.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, professional development, and wellness support.
- Other info: Be part of a thriving community focused on inclusion and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: HLTA standards or equivalent, Level 2 English and maths, and experience in teaching support.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
River Academy opened in September 2024 with 180 students and seven students in its resource base. From September 2026, student numbers will increase again as the school welcomes its next cohort of Year 7 students. The school is currently oversubscribed, with waiting lists in all year groups, and expects continued high demand for September 2026.
You will join a strong and committed school team, contributing to the delivery of clear routines and the setting of expectations in line with the River Academy. River Academy is seeking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant to support learning. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with teaching staff to help students achieve strong academic progress while supporting their wellbeing, confidence and engagement in learning.
About this Role
As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you will plan, prepare and deliver learning activities for individuals, small groups and whole classes under the direction of teaching staff. You will play an important role in supporting students to access the curriculum, develop literacy skills and make sustained progress in their learning.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues to monitor student progress, adapt learning resources and contribute to a positive and purposeful learning environment. The role also includes supporting behaviour management, inclusion and communication with parents, carers and external professionals where appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver learning activities under the guidance of teaching staff
- Support students’ attainment, engagement and wellbeing
- Adapt learning materials and resources to meet varying student needs
- Monitor, assess and report on student progress
- Promote positive behaviour and independence within learning environments
- Support literacy, numeracy and wider learning programmes
- Build constructive relationships with students, families, colleagues and external agencies
- Contribute positively to the ethos and values of the school and Maiden Erlegh Trust
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds HLTA standards or equivalent qualifications or experience
- Has Level 2 qualifications in English and mathematics
- Has experience supporting teaching and learning activities
- Understands the National Curriculum and effective learning strategies
- Has strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Can work collaboratively and use initiative effectively
- Demonstrates a calm, positive and flexible approach
- Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
About Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across nine schools, including primary, secondary, special, and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise.
We Aim High, Be Inclusive, and Work Together. These values drive our focus on high-quality education for all, through collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high-quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities, and our annual MET Staff Conference—a day that unites our whole team in sharing best practice and learning. Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise; it is about playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.
About the School
River Academy is a purpose-built secondary school serving the growing need for school places in the Reading area. Located on Richfield Avenue, the site includes specialist teaching facilities across the curriculum, including a hall, activity studio, learning resource centre, drama studio and sports studio. Classrooms are fully equipped with interactive screens and visualisers.
The school has high expectations for all students, with a clear focus on academic excellence and participation. When fully open, River Academy will serve students of all abilities and backgrounds, alongside an additional resource base for students with moderate learning difficulties. The school also offers a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities through its after-school Electives programme, available to all students.
Benefits
Further information about working at Maiden Erlegh Trust can be found on our website. Staff wellbeing and professional development are central to how we work, and colleagues across our Trust benefit from a range of opportunities and schemes designed to recognise their contribution and support their growth.
- Pension Scheme: Generous employer contributions, with auto-enrolment into either the Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme, both Career Average Earning Schemes.
- Annual Leave: We offer a generous holiday entitlement, which increases with length of service.
- ME Day: Colleagues may request one additional day’s leave each year to attend a special personal event, such as a child’s sports day or graduation, or a family celebration.
- Professional Development: We offer a comprehensive programme of professional learning through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, including opportunities to both attend and deliver CPD. Colleagues also take part in our annual Conference, a full day of workshops, networking and learning for all staff.
- Hybrid Working: For eligible roles, we support a flexible approach to working arrangements, balancing remote and office-based work where appropriate.
- Perkbox: Colleagues have access to Perkbox, which offers a wide range of discounts and wellness resources and receive 25 Perk points each month which can be exchanged for goods and services.
- Wellbeing and Health: Free flu vaccinations are offered to all staff, and free eye tests are provided to those who are eligible.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Incorporating discount vouchers, access to 24/7 support and more.
- Mental Health First Aid support.
- Recognition and Community: We regularly celebrate staff achievements, milestones and contributions across our schools, reinforcing a strong sense of belonging within the #TeamMET community.
- Employee Referral Scheme.
Working for our Trust means contributing to something larger by supporting the education and life chances of children and young people every day.
Additional Information
If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution to the future of our Trust and its schools, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time. Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in Reading employer: River Academy
Maiden Erlegh Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong emphasis on professional development through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, employees have access to continuous learning opportunities, mentoring, and leadership pathways. Located at River Academy, a purpose-built secondary school in Reading, the Trust prioritises staff wellbeing and offers generous benefits, including a robust pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and a vibrant community that celebrates achievements and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and connect with teachers and staff at River Academy. Building relationships can give you the inside scoop on job openings and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching River Academy's values and ethos. Think about how your experience aligns with their commitment to student wellbeing and academic excellence. Show them you're not just a fit for the role, but for their community too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to supporting diverse learning needs. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills in adapting resources and promoting positive behaviour.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of the Maiden Erlegh Trust community.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting students! Share specific examples of how you've helped learners in the past, whether it's through tutoring or engaging activities. We want to know why you're excited about this role!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Higher Level Teaching Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our values at River Academy. A personal touch goes a long way!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and qualifications. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and understand—no need for fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and allows you to explore more about River Academy and Maiden Erlegh Trust while you're at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at River Academy
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the National Curriculum and effective learning strategies. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're ready to support students' academic progress.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for helping students achieve their best. Share examples of how you've supported learning in the past, whether through adapting resources or promoting positive behaviour. This will demonstrate your commitment to the school's ethos and values.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting a student with behavioural challenges or adapting lessons for different learning needs. Think of real-life examples from your experience that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with teaching staff.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask about the school culture, professional development opportunities, or how they measure student progress. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
