At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs through tailored lessons and interventions.
- Company: Join a nurturing alternative education provision in Leigh.
- Benefits: Make a real difference, enjoy autonomy, and gain valuable experience for future teaching roles.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Empower vulnerable young people and help them thrive academically and socially.
- Qualifications: HLTA qualification or significant experience with KS3/KS4 students required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Intervention Provision
Location: Leigh, Greater Manchester
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-time, term-time only
Pay: Competitive rate (via Teaching Personnel)
Teaching Personnel is working in partnership with a specialist Intervention Provision in Leigh to recruit a committed and experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join their team from September.
About the Provision
This alternative provision supports students aged 11–16 (KS3–KS4) who are not currently accessing mainstream education. Pupils attending the setting may present with a range of additional needs, including:
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Behavioural challenges
- Anxiety and school refusal
- Disrupted education and significant learning gaps
The setting offers a structured, nurturing environment focused on re‑engagement, personalised learning, and supporting students to achieve both academically and socially.
The Role
As an HLTA, you will play a key role in supporting teaching and learning across the provision. You will work closely with teaching staff to deliver targeted interventions, lead small group and 1:1 sessions, and support the overall development of students.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver planned lessons and intervention sessions across a range of subjects (including core subjects) in the absence of a teacher
- Provide 1:1 and small group support tailored to individual learning needs
- Support students with SEMH needs, promoting positive behaviour and emotional regulation
- Assist in planning and preparing learning resources and activities
- Monitor student progress and provide feedback to teaching staff
- Build strong, positive relationships to support engagement and attendance
- Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment
- Support with behaviour management in line with the provision’s policies
Requirements
- HLTA qualification or significant experience in a similar role within a school or alternative provision
- Experience working with KS3/KS4 students, particularly those with SEMH or additional needs
- Strong behaviour management and de‑escalation skills
- Confident leading small groups and delivering pre‑planned lessons
- Adaptable, resilient, and proactive approach
- A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people
- Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to obtain one)
Benefits
- Opportunity to make a real difference in an alternative education setting
- Supportive and collaborative staff team
- Varied role with responsibility and autonomy
- Excellent experience for those considering teacher training or progression
Secondary SEMH Higher Level Teaching Assistant in Leigh employer: Teaching Personnel
Teaching Personnel is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Higher Level Teaching Assistants in Leigh, Greater Manchester. With a focus on making a meaningful impact in the lives of students with SEMH needs, employees benefit from a varied role that fosters professional growth and autonomy, alongside opportunities for future teacher training. The nurturing atmosphere and commitment to personalised learning ensure that staff feel valued and empowered in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Secondary SEMH Higher Level Teaching Assistant in Leigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local job fairs, and join online groups related to teaching. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school or provision you're applying to. Understand their ethos, values, and the specific needs of their students. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or family member. Focus on common questions for HLTA roles, especially around supporting students with SEMH needs. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that HLTA role, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Secondary SEMH Higher Level Teaching Assistant in Leigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEMH needs and working with KS3/KS4 students. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experience!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable young people shine through in your application. We love to see candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary to make your key skills and experiences stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super straightforward – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, especially in an SEMH context. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students who may have social, emotional, and mental health challenges. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences working with KS3/KS4 students, particularly those with additional needs. Have specific examples ready that highlight your behaviour management skills and how you've successfully supported students in similar settings.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. They’ll be looking for someone who can foster strong relationships with students. Share anecdotes that illustrate your ability to engage and support young people, especially those facing challenges.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the provision and its approach to supporting students. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you. Think about asking how they measure student progress or what strategies they use for behaviour management.
