At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with autism in a creative and nurturing learning environment.
- Company: Join a compassionate school dedicated to inclusivity and personal growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative team culture and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with autism and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 29064 - 31021 £ per year.
We are looking for a compassionate, creative and adaptable Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our specialist Connect All-Through pathway team. This rewarding opportunity supports young people with autism and associated needs in a highly personalised learning environment where relationships, communication, life skills and emotional wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do.
About the role
This role is based within our Connect All-Through pathway, which follows an informal curriculum focused on play, exploration, communication and life skills. The class consists of KS3/4 students who are generally working at lower KS1 levels. As a HLTA, you will work closely with teachers and specialist staff to support pupils throughout the school day – academically, socially and emotionally – through 1:1 work, small group interventions and whole-class learning, and by helping to create a calm, engaging and nurturing environment where every student can succeed. You may also be required to lead learning or supervise a class in the teacher's absence, sometimes at short notice; confidence, flexibility and initiative are important.
What you'll be doing
- Supporting students throughout the school day in class, small groups and 1:1 sessions
- Helping pupils engage with learning through personalised and creative approaches
- Supporting communication, emotional regulation and social development
- Building strong, trusting relationships with young people
- Leading or supporting whole-class learning when required
- Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals
- Supporting educational visits and off-site learning opportunities
- Encouraging independence, confidence and life skills
- Promoting positive behaviour through relational approaches
- Supporting pupils with intimate care where required
- Helping to create a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment
Required qualifications and experience
- Experience supporting children or young people with autism and associated needs
- Experience supporting vulnerable or at-risk pupils
- Strong behaviour-management skills using relational approaches
- The ability to lead and support a class confidently
- A child-centred and nurturing approach to learning
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Good organisational and time-management skills
- GCSEs (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications) across a range of subjects
- A reflective and solution-focused approach
- Creativity, flexibility and a willingness to adapt learning to meet individual needs
Desirable
- A Level 3 or SEND-related qualification
- Experience supporting KS3/4 students working below age-related expectations
- Experience developing community links or partnership working
- Experience supporting intimate care
- A commitment to continued professional development
Benefits & salary
- Full-time equivalent salary: £29,064 – £31,021 per annum (term-time only £25,291 – £26,994 per annum).
- 37 hours per week, 8:30 am – 16:30 pm Monday-Thursday and 8:30 am – 16:00 pm Friday.
- Permanent or term-time only.
- Grounds for generous pension and sick pay scheme.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Access to health and wellbeing support services.
Professional development & culture
Our school offers comprehensive induction and ongoing training, partnership with experienced SEND professionals, a warm and collaborative team culture and the chance to make a meaningful impact every day. We celebrate individuality and inclusivity for all students.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Connect All Through Pathway employer: SGS
Join our dedicated team as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) in the Connect All-Through pathway, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with autism. Our school fosters a warm and collaborative culture, offering comprehensive training and professional development opportunities, alongside a generous benefits package including a local government pension scheme and health support services. Here, you will thrive in a nurturing environment that celebrates individuality and inclusivity, ensuring every student can succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Connect All Through Pathway
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with students with autism. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, share your experiences and why you care about supporting young people with autism. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your skills! Prepare for practical assessments or role-play scenarios that might come up during the interview process. Think about how you'd handle different situations in the classroom.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to showcase your talents and connect with us directly. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Connect All Through Pathway
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting young people with autism and their unique needs. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to creating a nurturing environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to know how your background aligns with our Connect All-Through pathway!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, so we can easily see how you fit into our team.
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 ensure you’re considered for this rewarding role.
How to prepare for a job interview at SGS
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with autism and associated challenges. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences supporting these students and how you can adapt your approach to meet their individual needs.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare examples of how you've used creative methods to engage students in learning. Think about activities or strategies that promote communication and emotional regulation, as these are key in the role you're applying for.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
Be prepared to discuss situations where you've had to think on your feet or adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Highlight your ability to lead a class or support teachers when needed, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Show your compassionate side and discuss how you would create trusting relationships with students. This is crucial in a nurturing environment like the one they offer.
