Job Description

We are looking for a skilled and imaginative HLTA with more than a fair share of patience and understanding, to work with young people (11-18) who are experiencing mental health issues. The position starts in April though could begin immediately for the right candidate. The contract will be in the first instance, fixed term for 2 years.

You will join a dedicated team committed to providing a varied and engaging timetable of educational activities up to Key Stage 5. Having evidence of the successful support of curriculum activitiesis important, but the demonstrable ability to engage with our pupils, their schools and families is essential.

Activities will include supporting young people with work prepared by teachers, leading on careers, ASDAN and life skills.

Applications from both special and current mainstream staff will be welcome. You will be working with professionals from other disciplines in a hospital setting to help restore the health of the young people admitted as patients and thereby enable them to re-engage with and enjoy their education.

For an infomal chat please contact Val Scott, Head of Education on 01702 538138

Information about the School

Poplar Adolescent Unit is a specialist education provision situated within Rochford psychiatric hospital, near to Southend on Sea. The Unit is an acute in-patient CAMHS ward for young people aged 11 to 18 with accute mental-health conditions which prevent them from attending their local schools, colleges or employment. The Unit is funded for 16 places. The education team comprises an Executive Head, Acting Headteacher, Acting Deputy Headteacher, three teachers, 2 HLTAs, 2 university placement students and a part time School Business Manager. Alongside the principal focus of maintaining home school and college curriculum links, we strongly encourage involvement in the arts, music and physical activity as part of our personal development curriculum. We work in partnership with a multi-disciplinary team which includes doctors, nurses, a social worker, clinical psychologists and a family therapist on the unit and have significant partnerships for each pupil with education provision beyond the unit. The young people remain on the roll of their home school and are supported to re-integrate back into that setting as discharge from Poplar approaches. Additionally, those young people who are NEET, are helped to explore the next steps in their future planning.