📌 Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Job Title: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Level 2 / Level 3)
Location: Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Salary: £90 - £115 per day
Contract Type: Full-time, term-time only (39 weeks per year)
Working Hours: 8:30am - 3:00pm
Start Date: Immediate
Reporting To: Class Teacher / SENCO / Head of Department

🏫 About the School

This is a supportive and inclusive school committed to providing high-quality education for all pupils. The school has a strong focus on inclusive practice, safeguarding, and pupil wellbeing, and caters for a diverse cohort of learners, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Staff work collaboratively to create a safe, engaging, and stimulating learning environment where every child is encouraged to achieve their full potential.

🧩 Role Purpose

The Teaching Assistant will support teaching and learning across the curriculum by working closely with teachers to deliver structured lessons and targeted interventions.

The role includes providing academic, social, and emotional support to pupils, particularly those who require additional help, ensuring all students can access the curriculum and participate fully in school life.

📚 Teaching & Learning Support

• Support the planning and delivery of lessons under the guidance of the class teacher
• Prepare differentiated learning materials tailored to pupils' abilities
• Deliver structured intervention programmes (e.g., phonics, literacy, numeracy)
• Assist in the use of ICT and educational resources to enhance learning
• Work with individuals or small groups to reinforce learning objectives

👩‍🏫 Classroom Management

• Maintain a purposeful, orderly, and supportive classroom environment
• Assist with the organisation of classroom space, displays, and resources
• Support transitions between activities and lessons
• Supervise pupils during lessons, break times, and school activities as required

🧠 Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support

• Provide targeted support for pupils with EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans)
• Implement strategies recommended by the SENCO or external professionals
• Support children with conditions such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), ADHD, speech and language needs, and social/emotional difficulties
• Adapt teaching approaches to meet individual needs
• Assist with sensory or behavioural support plans

💬 Behaviour & Pastoral Care

• Promote positive behaviour in accordance with the school's behaviour policy
• Use de-escalation techniques where necessary
• Build positive relationships with pupils to support engagement and motivation
• Encourage independence, resilience, and self-esteem
• Provide emotional support and act as a trusted adult for pupils

📊 Assessment & Record Keeping

• Observe, monitor, and record pupil progress
• Provide feedback to teachers to support assessment and planning
• Assist in maintaining accurate records, including SEN documentation
• Support the preparation of reports for parents and staff meetings

🛡️ Safeguarding & Compliance

• Adhere to all safeguarding and child protection policies
• Be vigilant in identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• Ensure a safe and secure environment for all pupils

🤝 Teamwork & Communication

• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and other staff
• Communicate effectively with parents/carers when required
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities
• Contribute to school improvement and pupil support strategies

✅ Essential Requirements

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above)
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with children and staff
• A patient, empathetic, and adaptable approach
• Commitment to safeguarding and equality

🌟 Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification
• Previous experience working in a school or educational setting
• Experience supporting children with SEN
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and behaviour management strategies
• First Aid qualification (or willingness to train)

🎯 Professional Standards & Expectations

• Maintain high levels of professionalism and confidentiality
• Demonstrate commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
• Show initiative and willingness to support wider school activities
• Uphold the school's values and ethos

🎁 Benefits

• Competitive salary with potential progression
• Ongoing CPD (Continuing Professional Development) opportunities
• Supportive leadership and mentoring
• Opportunity to progress into teaching or specialist roles