Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Courtlands Primary School

Job Purpose

The Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) will work as part of the school’s teaching and support team to provide high-quality learning experiences for pupils across the school. The postholder will support teachers in delivering engaging and inclusive lessons, lead learning activities and, where appropriate, teach whole classes in the absence of the class teacher.

The successful candidate will have high expectations of all pupils and will contribute positively to their academic, social and emotional development. They will work collaboratively with teachers, support staff, pupils and families to promote a safe, inclusive and stimulating learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching and Learning

• Deliver planned lessons and learning activities to individuals, groups and whole classes, as directed by teaching staff.
• Take responsibility for learning activities in the absence of the class teacher, following agreed lesson plans and school procedures.
• Support pupils to develop their knowledge, skills, confidence and independence.
• Adapt activities and resources to meet the needs of pupils with different abilities and learning needs.
• Provide targeted support to pupils who require additional intervention or challenge.
• Monitor pupil progress and provide constructive feedback to pupils and relevant staff.
• Promote positive attitudes towards learning and encourage pupils to achieve their full potential.
• Use a range of teaching and learning strategies to engage pupils and maintain their interest.

Pupil Support and Wellbeing

• Develop positive, professional relationships with pupils and act as a positive role model.
• Support pupils’ social, emotional and behavioural development.
• Promote inclusion and ensure that all pupils are treated with dignity, respect and fairness.
• Support pupils with additional needs in accordance with individual plans and school policies.
• Help maintain a calm, safe and purposeful learning environment.
• Follow the school’s safeguarding, behaviour, health and safety and pastoral procedures.

Planning, Assessment and Record Keeping

• Work closely with teachers to contribute to planning and preparation of learning activities.
• Assess and monitor pupils’ work and progress as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records relating to pupils’ learning and support.
• Share relevant information about pupil progress, attainment, behaviour and wellbeing with teachers and other appropriate staff.
• Contribute to the evaluation and development of interventions and learning programmes.

Teamwork and Professional Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants, SEND staff and other colleagues.
• Contribute to staff meetings, professional discussions and school improvement activities.
• Support the wider life of Courtlands Primary School, including assemblies, educational visits, clubs and other activities where required.
• Establish effective communication with parents and carers within the responsibilities of the role.
• Maintain confidentiality and act professionally at all times.
• Participate in relevant training and professional development.
• Follow all school policies and procedures.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of working with primary-aged children in an educational or similar setting.
• Good understanding of primary education and child development.
• Ability to support and engage pupils with a range of abilities and needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to use initiative and work independently when appropriate.
• High expectations of pupil behaviour, learning and achievement.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional integrity.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.

Desirable

• HLTA qualification or relevant equivalent experience.
• Relevant teaching assistant, childcare or education qualification.
• Experience of leading whole-class learning or structured group activities.
• Experience supporting pupils with SEND.
• Experience delivering interventions or targeted support programmes.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, behaviour management and inclusive teaching approaches.

Safeguarding

Courtlands Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate pre-employment safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references, in accordance with current legislation and school procedures.

Working Relationships

The HLTA will work closely with:

• Headteacher and senior leadership team
• Class teachers
• Teaching assistants and support staff
• SENDCo and other specialist staff
• Pupils and families
• External professionals where appropriate

Overall Expectations

All staff at Courtlands Primary School are expected to contribute to a positive school culture in which every child feels safe, valued, included and able to succeed. The HLTA will play an important role in supporting high-quality teaching and learning and in helping pupils develop academically, socially and emotionally.

– How to Apply: Please send your resume/CV to roxanne.mcgill@supplyregister.uk or apply via this vacancy. 

The Supply Register is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

The Supply Register is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure, including a Children’s barred list check.