At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead classroom learning and support pupils to stay engaged and successful.
- Company: The Orchard School, where everyone matters and cares.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, strong team culture, and a role with real purpose.
- Other info: Join a growing school focused on relationships and consistent routines.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by providing stability and support to pupils.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Teaching Assistant or HLTA status preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 € per year.
Everyone Matters. Everyone Cares. At The Orchard School, we do things differently. We are not looking for a traditional HLTA. We are looking for someone who can step into the classroom, lead learning with confidence, and create consistency for pupils who need it most.
About the Role
This is a key role within our classroom teams. As an HLTA, you will:
- Deliver planned lessons during teacher PPA
- Lead learning during short-term teacher absence
- Support pupils to stay engaged and successful
- Maintain routines, expectations and relationships
You will not be planning the curriculum. You will be delivering it with clarity, consistency and confidence.
Why This Role Matters
Our pupils need:
- Predictable adults
- Consistent routines
- Calm, confident leadership
HLTAs provide that stability. They ensure that learning continues, expectations remain high, and pupils feel safe and supported every day. We are entering an exciting phase of development following our recent inspection, with a clear focus on strengthening consistency, classroom practice and pupil experience across the school. This role is central to that work.
What Makes Us Different
At The Orchard School:
- Relationships come first
- Behaviour is understood as communication
- Staff work as a team around the child
- Classrooms are calm, structured and predictable
- Every adult uses a shared language: Ready, Respectful, Safe
Our work is guided by The Orchard Way: Trust. Belonging. Aspiration. Voice. Pride. Curiosity.
Who We Are Looking For
You may already be an HLTA. Or you may be an experienced Teaching Assistant ready to step up. HLTA status or equivalent experience is desirable. You must be confident leading learning and maintaining classroom consistency. What matters is that you:
- Can confidently lead a class when required
- Stay calm in challenging situations
- Value consistency and routine
- Build strong relationships with pupils
- Want to be part of a team that supports each other
Why Join Us
A clear and shared ethos
- Strong team culture
- Ongoing training and development
- A role with real purpose and impact
- The opportunity to shape a growing school
This is not just a support role. It is a role that strengthens learning, stability and relationships across the school. At The Orchard School, Everyone Matters. Everyone Cares.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Term Time employer: Sandwich Infant
At The Orchard School, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where every team member is valued. As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you will not only play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience for our pupils but also benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities that empower your professional growth. Join us in a setting that prioritises strong relationships, calm classrooms, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Term Time
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture before your interview. Research The Orchard School's values and ethos, so you can show how you align with their focus on relationships and consistency. This will help you stand out as someone who truly understands what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice leading a lesson or two! Even if it’s just in front of friends or family, being able to demonstrate your confidence in delivering lessons will be key. It shows you’re ready to step into the HLTA role and lead learning effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss how you handle challenging situations. Think of examples where you’ve maintained calm and consistency in the classroom. This is crucial for the role, and sharing your experiences will highlight your suitability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Term Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for education and how you connect with students.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of The Orchard School. Highlight your experience in leading learning and maintaining consistency, as these are key to our approach.
Showcase Your Skills:Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you've successfully led a class or supported pupils. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team and the stability we aim to provide.
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 you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to understand The Orchard School's values and ethos. Familiarise yourself with their focus on relationships, consistency, and calm leadership. This will help you align your answers with what they truly care about.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've led a class or supported pupils in challenging situations. Highlight how you maintained routines and built relationships, as this is crucial for the HLTA role.
✨Demonstrate Calmness Under Pressure
Think of scenarios where you had to stay calm and composed in a difficult situation. Share these experiences during the interview to show that you can handle the pressures of leading a classroom effectively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to behaviour management and team collaboration. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their community and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
