Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Behaviour Lead) in Birmingham

Forward Education Trust, The Heights Academy, Auckland Drive, Solihull, B36 0DD. 32.5 hours per week, permanent, term time only. Start date – ASAP. The Heights Academy opened in September 2023 in a brand-new build. The Trust is an established MAT of six special schools based in the West Midlands, covering Sandwell, Birmingham and Solihull. All of our pupils have an EHCP with a diagnosis of Autism.

We are looking for a highly effective, creative and inspirational Higher Level Teaching Assistant who will enthuse and engage our autistic learners and support them to develop and reach their potential. This post will focus on developing positive behaviour support and therapeutic interventions for our young people.

• Provide high-quality support as a HLTA with experience of working with children in KS2, KS3 or KS4.
• Work with children in SEND settings and with autism.
• Apply an in-depth understanding of behaviours of concern, including functional analysis of behaviour and positive behaviour support planning.

All applications must be qualified as a Higher Level Teaching or equivalent and be able to evidence this. Alternatively, a qualification to NVQ Level 3 with a commitment to complete the HLTA qualification could be accepted.

• A commitment to developing new skills through a wide range of professional development opportunities.
• The opportunity to contribute to the education and lives of children who respond very positively to high quality teaching and support.
• A friendly and inclusive working environment.

• Teacher Pension or Local Government Pension – Employer Contribution
• FET HUB – information, benefits and resources
• Paid Health Cash Plan – employee and dependent children benefit; option to add partner
• Employee consultation and engagement opportunities
• Salary sacrifice schemes, including Cycle to Work
• NHS-approved Thrive App for mental health and well-being
• Induction, probation support and ongoing performance management
• Ease of purchase schemes and technology discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme – confidential advice
• Learning and development resources (e.g., FLICK) and other benefits
• Discounts and offers via Reward Gateway and My Perks
• Occupational Health support
• Staff recognition and Mental Health First Aiders
• Policies to support positive health and well-being (e.g., Flexible Working, Family Friendly Working)

• Your considerable skill as an outstanding Teaching Assistant with experience of working with children with special needs.
• Commitment to engaging and inspiring pupils and the ability to make a real difference to learning and well-being.
• Flexibility, commitment and excellent interpersonal skills.

Closing date: 27/02/2026
Interview Date: 09/03/2026

The Trust may review applications on receipt and may call applicants for interview prior to the advert closing date. Early application is encouraged as the vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date. Please note that only fully completed Forward Education Trust Application forms will be accepted; CVs or other application materials will not be read in place of the application form. If you do not hear from the school within 14 days of the closing date, please assume you have not been shortlisted.

The successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS check and will be subject to relevant pre-employment checks. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent English is an essential requirement for this role. An online search will be carried out for all shortlisted candidates.

Forward Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate must promote this ethos. The successful candidate will be subject to all necessary pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS; Prohibition check; Childcare Disqualification; qualifications, medical fitness; identity and right to work and two references.