Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – SEND Secondary School

We are seeking an experienced HLTA to support teaching and learning in a specialist secondary setting. You will lead classes, deliver planned lessons, support EHCP targets, and contribute to pupil progress across a range of needs.

About the role

You will lead whole-class, group, and individual learning sessions, including covering lessons in teacher absence. You will support planning, adapt learning, manage behaviour, and work closely with staff to support pupils with complex needs and ensure progress.

About the school

The school provides education for young people aged 11–16 with autism and associated social, emotional, communication and sensory needs. It offers a structured, supportive environment with small classes, high staffing ratios, and a strong focus on personalised learning.

Requirements

To be considered for the role of Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – SEND Secondary School you will:

• HLTA status or equivalent Level 4 qualification
• Experience in SEND settings
• Strong behaviour management skills
• Ability to lead learning independently
• GCSE Maths & English (Grade 4/C or equivalent
• Team-focused and flexible approach

Salary is dependent on experience, training or qualifications. The minimum experience, training or qualifications required for this position are:

• Experience working in SEND Schools / Provisions

Smart Teachers is committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. We take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All staff we register will undertake thorough interviewing and referencing checks and hold, or be prepared to undergo, an Enhanced DBS check that must be registered on the Update Service.

About Smart Teachers

Smart Teachers is a market-leading education recruitment and supply agency committed to the learning and development of young people. With branches across the country, we are an employer of choice for high-quality primary, secondary and SEND teaching and support staff.

What Smart Teachers offer

As a valued employee of Smart Teachers, you will receive:

• Excellent daily rates paid weekly by our in-house Payroll team using the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system.
• Guaranteed pay scheme (subject to availability and qualifying criteria).
• Pension contributions (subject to a qualifying period).
• Full compliance with AWR (Agency Workers’ Regulations), to make sure you get the pay and working conditions you are entitled to.
• FREE training to help with your professional development such as Team Teach training, online webinars and safeguarding and child protection updates.
• Generous refer a friend or colleague bonus scheme.
• Access to a dedicated consultant, who will provide ongoing support.

Smart Teachers do not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

How to apply

Apply via this website with an up-to-date CV and contact details. For more information, or an informal chat about the role, please call Sam Tinker on 020 7065 7500 or email [email protected].