SEND Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Job Description

Cherry Tree Academy is seeking a passionate, skilled and dedicated SEND Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to work closely with the SENDCO to ensure every pupil with additional needs receives high‑quality support, targeted intervention and an inclusive, nurturing experience.

We are looking for an individual who shares our belief that all children can thrive, and who is committed to creative, relational and ambitious SEND practice-mirroring the high expectations and child‑centred ethos reflected in other strong primary SEND/HLTA roles nationally.

Working hours are 25 hours per week, term time only, 8.45am-3.00pm, Monday to Friday. Starting salary, Scale 6 pt. 13, £16,383 per annum.

About the Role

As our SEND HLTA, you will:

• Work alongside the SENDCO to support pupils with a range of SEND needs, ensuring high‑quality provision and personalised support.
• Deliver bespoke intervention programmes (academic, social‑emotional, communication & interaction), adapting approaches to meet diverse learner needs-consistent with expectations of specialist SEND HLTAs.
• Lead small‑group and 1:1 sessions, tracking progress and communicating outcomes clearly.
• Support inclusive classroom practice, offering in‑class strategies, modelling approaches to staff, and ensuring high expectations for all pupils.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils, families and professionals-reflecting the relational and inclusive emphasis seen in recent HLTA adverts.
• Contribute to high‑quality planning, assessment and delivery of learning activities where required, including covering classes as appropriate for a qualified HLTA.

We Are Looking for Someone Who:

• Holds HLTA status (or is willing to work towards it) and brings strong experience supporting pupils with SEND.
• Holds GCSE Grade A-C in Maths and English (or equivalent grades).
• Has a strong understanding of SEND, including effective intervention approaches and practical strategies for adapting the curriculum.
• Demonstrates initiative, creativity and a nurturing approach to meeting the needs of vulnerable pupils.
• Is resilient, reflective and committed to working as part of a team-mirroring the collaborative spirit sought by strong primary SEND settings.
• Values teamwork and contributes positively to the wider school community.
• Has excellent communication skills and the ability to work professionally with families and external agencies.

We Can Offer You:

• A supportive and dedicated SEND team and leadership team.
• Opportunities for professional development, including SEND-specific CPD, aligned with offers seen in strong HLTA adverts.
• A welcoming, inclusive school community where staff and pupils thrive.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of children with additional needs.

Visits to Cherry Tree Academy are warmly welcomed, please contact the school office on 01206 575224 to arrange an appointment.

Inspires Multi-Academy Trust are committed to:

• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety, and the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, of children and young people;
• Promoting equality of opportunity and community cohesion where the diversity of different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued;
• Promoting the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs;

and expects all staff, volunteers and other workers to share this commitment. It is recognised that this can only be achieved through sound procedures, good inter-agency co-operation and the recruitment and retention of competent, motivated employees who are suited to, and fulfilled in the roles they undertake.

Appointment will be subject to satisfactory references, medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.