Higher Level Teaching Assistant

Location: Blandford Forum, Dorset
Full-Time | Temp-to-perm
Start Date:  June or July

Are you an experienced HLTA looking for a rewarding role within a specialist educational setting?

We are seeking a confident, compassionate, and highly skilled Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join a specialist ASC provision supporting pupils from primary through to post-16 in Blandford Forum. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), helping them achieve both academically and personally within a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Working closely with teachers, the SEN team, and wider professionals, you will provide high-quality classroom support, deliver targeted interventions, and take a proactive role in supporting pupil progress and wellbeing.

As an Experienced HLTA, you will:
•    Deliver tailored learning support for pupils with ASC across a range of age groups and abilities.
•    Lead small group interventions and, where required, cover lessons in the absence of the class teacher.
•    Support teachers in planning and delivering engaging, accessible, and differentiated learning activities.
•    Build positive relationships with pupils to support their communication, emotional regulation, and social development.
•    Help maintain a calm, structured, and supportive learning environment.
•    Use effective behaviour management strategies to support pupils both in and outside the classroom.
•    Monitor, assess, and record pupil progress, contributing to reviews and support plans.
•    Work collaboratively with teachers, parents, therapists, and external agencies to ensure pupils receive consistent support.
•    Support and mentor less experienced support staff where appropriate.
•    Participate fully in staff meetings, training, and ongoing professional development.

The ideal candidate will have:
•    Significant experience working within SEN/ASC settings.
•    HLTA status or a relevant Level 4 qualification (or equivalent experience).
•    A strong understanding of Autism Spectrum Condition and strategies to support pupils effectively.
•    Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
•    Confidence leading learning activities independently and supporting classroom delivery.
•    A patient, adaptable, and nurturing approach.
•    The ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
•    A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

What the Provision Offers
•    A supportive and welcoming leadership team.
•    A collaborative and highly experienced staff team.
•    Access to ongoing CPD and specialist SEN training.
•    Opportunities to further develop leadership and classroom practice skills.
•    A rewarding role where you can make a lasting impact on young people’s lives.
•    A specialist and inclusive educational environment where staff wellbeing is valued.

Salary 
£100–£120 per day, depending on experience.

If you are passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs and are ready to take the next step in your career within a specialist setting, we would love to hear from you.