At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young learners in mainstream schools and community venues with tailored interventions.
- Company: Willow Vale School, a forward-thinking educational provision in West Somerset.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives by helping them re-engage in their education.
- Qualifications: Experience working with young people and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24816 - 27821 £ per year.
Willow Vale School are seeking to appoint permanent Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) - Grade 12 actual annual gross salary £24,816- £27,821. Salary dependent on experience, 37 hours per week for 39 weeks per year (Term time plus INSET days). Hours of work: Monday 8.30-5.00, Tuesday to Thursday 8.30-4.30 and Friday 08.30 - 3.30.
Willow Vale School is a newly established and forward‑thinking provision created from the former Bridge School Sedgemoor and Taunton Deane Partnership College (TDPC). Spread across six specialist sites in the Bridgwater and Taunton areas, as well as working in West Somerset from September 2026, we provide flexible, personalised education for children and young people with a wide range of needs. Our work is guided by three core values that shape everything we do: Be Safe. Be Kind. Belong. These values underpin our culture and ensure every learner feels supported, respected and part of a community where they can thrive.
Students join Willow Vale through several pathways. Our main remit is to work with and support young people who are not able to access mainstream schools, for a variety of reasons. Whatever the route, our aim is to provide high‑quality, highly personalised programmes that rebuild confidence, re‑engage learners and prepare them for their next steps.
We are looking for experienced HLTAs to join our team to work specifically in West Somerset. The successful candidate will work in a range of mainstream schools as well as community venues to support children of all ages with specific interventions. The post will include planning, leading and delivering a range of interventions and subjects under the direction of a teacher. Ideally you should have experience of working with young people who may have significant gaps in their education to help them re-engage in their learning.
You will be expected to demonstrate:
- Excellent communication skills
- An awareness of safeguarding young people (although full training will be provided)
- An understanding of how children and young people learn
- An ability to build positive relationships with students, staff and families
- Good literacy, numeracy and ICT skills
In return we can offer ongoing CPD opportunities, promotional opportunities and a very supportive and skilled team. Willow Vale works as a part of a wider team within a formal partnership with both Polden Bower and Avalon Schools.
If you feel you have what it takes to work with us to achieve the very best for our students, we would very much like to hear from you. Enquiries and visits are welcomed please call Jo Stamford, Assistant HR Manager, on 01278 496386 or email HR@Poldenbower.org.uk.
Willow Vale School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts require a criminal background check via the Disclosure procedure, medical clearance proof of the right to work in the UK and satisfactory references. Following the acceptance of your interview, an online check will be carried out as detailed in the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant - West Somerset Area in Taunton employer: Willow Vale School
Willow Vale School is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for Higher Level Teaching Assistants. With a strong emphasis on professional development, our team benefits from ongoing training opportunities and a collaborative culture that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. Located in the picturesque West Somerset area, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people while being part of a forward-thinking educational provision.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant - West Somerset Area in Taunton
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We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant - West Somerset Area in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Willow Vale School, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Willow Vale School and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willow Vale School
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Willow Vale School might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
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Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Willow Vale School.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
