– no sponsorship available
About the Role
We believe every young person deserves the chance to thrive, feel valued and discover what they are truly capable of. Our staff play a vital role in creating a nurturing, inspiring and ambitious environment — and we are now looking for a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our team.
This is a role for someone who wants to make a meaningful impact every day. As an HLTA, you will take a lead role in supporting teaching and learning, helping pupils develop confidence, independence and a belief in their own potential.
What you will be doing
As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, pastoral staff and leaders to enhance the learning experience for pupils with a range of needs. You will take on increased responsibility for planning, delivering and evaluating learning activities, as well as supporting the wider curriculum and school community.
Your work will include:
1. Leading small-group and one‑to‑one interventions to support academic, social and emotional development
2. Delivering planned learning activities under the guidance of teaching staff, and contributing to planning where appropriate
3. Providing high‑quality support for pupils with diverse learning needs, helping them engage positively and make meaningful progress
4. Assisting with assessment, monitoring and recording pupil progress
5. Supporting behaviour, wellbeing and inclusion across the school
6. Leading learning in the classroom during teacher absence or when directed
7. Helping to create a positive, safe and stimulating learning environment indoors and outdoors
8. Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils, colleagues and families
9. Contributing to a collaborative, supportive and inclusive school culture
Every day will bring new opportunities — from classroom learning to outdoor exploration and practical activities — and every day you will see the difference your leadership and support make.
What we're looking for
10. GCSE Math's & English or equivalent - desirable
11. Builds positive, respectful relationships with pupils and colleagues
12. Can confidently lead learning activities and support teaching across the curriculum
13. Understands how to support behaviour, engagement and emotional wellbeing
14. Is flexible and comfortable working across classrooms, outdoor learning and wider school activities
15. Models patience, kindness and resilience
16. Driving licence required
HLTA status or equivalent experience is desirable, but we welcome applications from strong practitioners who are ready to take the next step.
About Us
Dibden Park School is a brand-new independent specialist school in Southampton, supporting pupils with SEMH needs, communication difficulties, and associated complex behaviours. The school provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where small classes and personalised support help every pupil thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our broad and purposeful curriculum combines formal learning with life skills and enrichment activities to develop confidence, independence, and resilience. Pupils benefit from staff who understand their individual needs and remove barriers to engagement. Working closely with families, the school fosters strong relationships and a supportive community. Dibden Park empowers every pupil to achieve their full potential and prepare for life beyond school.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
17. Life Assurance
18. Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
19. “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
20. Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
21. Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
22. Hundreds of UK and international discounts
23. Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
24. Critical illness cover
25. Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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