SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Dunbar Education is thrilled to be partnering with a reputable SEN school in Bedford, which is looking to recruit a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). This role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The school caters to a small cohort of up to 25 students, aged 11-18, and focuses on personalised education plans that help bridge learning gaps and support personal growth.

The HLTA will work alongside teaching staff and senior leaders to provide essential support in delivering a high-quality, individualised learning experience for students. You will be involved in both academic and pastoral responsibilities, providing tailored interventions, contributing to planning lessons, and ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive in their educational journey. This is a hands-on role where you will assist in various aspects of teaching, behaviour management, and student development.

• Support Teaching and Learning: You will assist class teachers in delivering engaging, interactive lessons that cater to students with diverse needs, ensuring they are able to access the curriculum.
• Small Group and One-to-One Interventions: Plan and deliver targeted interventions for students who require additional support in specific subject areas, such as literacy, numeracy, and social skills.
• Lesson Planning and Delivery: Under the direction of teachers, assist with planning and adapting lessons that meet the individual needs of students. You may be expected to lead classes or curriculum areas when necessary.
• Behaviour Management: Implement and promote effective behaviour management strategies, supporting students in developing self-regulation and managing their emotions in a positive way.
• Student Wellbeing: As a key worker for certain students, you will monitor their emotional and social development, ensuring they receive the necessary pastoral care, and fostering a safe, trusting relationship with them.
• Learning Environment: Assist in the organisation and management of teaching spaces, ensuring that they remain conducive to both learning and student well-being.
• Observation and Assessment: Observe and assess students' progress, providing detailed reports and feedback to class teachers to help inform future lesson planning and personalised learning strategies.
• Lead Class Teaching: In the absence of the class teacher, you will take the lead in delivering pre-prepared lessons or managing the classroom, ensuring continuity of learning.
• Parental and Professional Liaison: Maintain open and supportive communication with parents, carers, and external professionals to ensure students' needs are met both at school and at home. This includes contributing to EHCP reviews and liaising with support services.
• Assist with Extracurricular Activities: Help organise and facilitate extracurricular activities and educational trips that enhance the student's learning and social experiences.
• Curriculum Enrichment: Contribute to the development of curriculum resources and activities that help students engage in meaningful learning, using creative approaches to make lessons accessible and enjoyable for all.
• Mentoring and Coaching: Mentor less experienced support staff or teaching assistants, providing them with advice and guidance in their roles.

• Essential:
  • A valid DBS on the update service (or the willingness to obtain one).
  • Previous experience working in an educational environment, ideally as a HLTA or similar role.
  • A strong understanding of Special Educational Needs, particularly SEMH.
  • Experience planning and delivering learning activities under the guidance of a teacher.
  • Effective behaviour management skills and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
  • The ability to support both the academic and emotional needs of students.
  • Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • A good level of IT competence, as the role may involve using ICT to support learning.
• Desirable:
  • HLTA qualification or equivalent.
  • Experience working with children with SEND, particularly SEMH and behavioural needs.
  • Previous experience leading classes or covering for teachers.
  • Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures.
  • Familiarity with working in alternative education or therapeutic settings.

• Empathy and Patience: A calm and understanding approach to supporting children with emotional or behavioural challenges.
• Creativity and Initiative: Ability to think creatively and use initiative to engage and motivate students.
• Resilience: The ability to remain composed and positive in a sometimes challenging environment.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to the changing needs of students and the school.

This is an incredible opportunity for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join a school that truly values its staff and the difference they make in the lives of young people. If you are passionate about working with students with SEMH needs and have the skills to support their learning and development, we encourage you to apply.

Dunbar Education is committed to the highest standards of safeguarding to ensure the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, to share this commitment. To adhere with safer recruitment procedures and guidelines, all registrations will be required to fill out our application form in, to receive work. This will be subject to pre-employment checks including an enhanced DBS disclosure and satisfactory references. Dunbar Education is an equal opportunities employer and recognises the value of and seeks to achieve a diverse workforce in schools. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Dunbar Education is a member of ASPCo Compliance Plus, for more information please refer to our recruitment & selection policy statement.