Job Description
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Job Tilte
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
for children and young people between the ages of 3 to 19 with Severe and Complex Learning Difficulties.
Employment Type & Working Hours
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Working pattern: Term time only (39 weeks per year), 35 hours per week.
Working hours: from 8:50am to 3:50pm (one day finishing at 4:10pm) Applicants must be able to work these hours.
Grade
Full time equivalent: Scale 6
Point14 to 18 £30,269 - £31,537 -(Pro rata according to hours and weeks worked.)
Reports to
Headteacher
Liaison with
SLT's, Teachers, Learning Support Assistants, Therapists (Speech & Language, Occupational and Physiotherapy), School Nurse, Parents/Carers, Social Care Professionals, Essex County Council Services and External Agencies.
Application close date
10th July 2026
Interview Date
15th July 2026
Job Purpose
To work in partnership with class teachers to support pupils' learning, development and wellbeing in accordance with the school's policies, procedures and statutory guidance. The postholder will lead learning activities and classes in the absence of the teacher and provide high-quality support to pupils with a range of special educational needs.
Key Responsibilities
Teaching and Learning
Work collaboratively with teachers to plan, prepare and deliver learning activities.
Lead whole-class, small-group and individual learning sessions, including covering classes in the planned or short-term absence of a teacher.
Adapt learning activities to meet the individual needs of pupils.
Support pupils to achieve their educational, social and emotional targets.
Monitor, assess and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teaching staff.
Promote positive behaviour and implement behaviour support strategies consistently.
Pupil Support
Support pupils with a range of special educational needs, enabling them to access learning and participate fully in school life.
Attend to pupils' personal care needs where required, including toileting, dressing, feeding and supporting mobility, while maintaining dignity and promoting independence.
Support pupils' emotional wellbeing and encourage the development of confidence, resilience and independence.
Respond appropriately to pupils who may display challenging behaviour using agreed school strategies.
Communication and Teamwork
Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Liaise with teachers, parents/carers and other professionals where appropriate.
Contribute to meetings, reviews and training as required.
General Responsibilities
Maintain accurate records in line with school procedures.
Safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils.
Always maintain confidentiality.
Comply with all school policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, equality and behaviour.
Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the grade of the post.
Personal Qualities
Essential
Experience of supporting children's learning in an educational setting.
Experience of working collaboratively as part of a team.
Experience of leading groups of pupils or whole-class activities.
Desirable
Experience of working with children with special educational needs.
Experience of supporting pupils with complex learning needs, autism, communication difficulties or physical disabilities.
Experience of supporting pupils who display behaviours that challenge.
Knowledge
Essential
Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
Knowledge of effective behaviour management strategies.
Understanding of inclusive teaching and learning practices.
Desirable
Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice.
Understanding of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Information about the School
Harlow Fields School and College is an all age special school for pupils with severe, moderate and complex needs. We are an inclusive, vibrant learning environment offering high quality education and care for all.