Take the Lead in Specialist Education Teaching Personnel is seeking an experienced and highly capable High Level Teaching Assistant to provide flexible supply cover across a variety of specialist SEND and SEMH provisions in the Sturminster Newton area. This opportunity is designed for professionals who are ready to take on greater responsibility within the classroom and who possess the confidence, expertise and adaptability required to support schools at short notice. We work with multiple specialist settings throughout the local area, offering access to a diverse range of educational environments and pupil needs. No two assignments are the same, making this an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy variety while continuing to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. As these are ad hoc supply positions, we are specifically looking for experienced practitioners who can quickly integrate into established teams, understand expectations, and contribute effectively from the moment they arrive. About the Role As a High Level Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting teaching and learning across specialist educational settings. Unlike traditional support positions, this role requires a greater degree of independence, initiative and leadership within the classroom. Leading learning activities and structured interventions Delivering pre-planned lessons in the absence of teaching staff Supporting pupils with a range of additional needs including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, communication difficulties and SEMH needs Providing targeted academic and emotional support Working with small groups to reinforce learning objectives Monitoring pupil engagement and progress Assisting with behaviour support strategies and positive reinforcement approaches Supporting the implementation of individual learning plans Liaising effectively with teaching staff and wider professionals Promoting independence, resilience and confidence amongst learners Helping maintain a safe, structured and productive learning environment The Type of Professional We Are Seeking This role is ideally suited to experienced HLTAs, senior teaching assistants, learning mentors or specialist support practitioners who are confident operating with a high level of autonomy. Previous experience within SEND, SEMH or specialist education settings Strong classroom management skills The ability to confidently lead learning activities Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities A calm, professional and solution-focused approach Flexibility to adapt to different provisions and pupil needs The capability to support pupils presenting with a range of complex needs A proactive attitude and willingness to contribute to the wider school community Schools are looking for professionals who can hit the ground running, establish credibility quickly and provide immediate value to both pupils and staff teams. Why Choose Supply Work? Many experienced education professionals choose supply work because it offers flexibility without sacrificing purpose. This position provides the opportunity to work across a variety of SEND and SEMH settings, broaden your experience, develop new skills and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Whether you are looking to supplement existing commitments, reduce the pressures associated with permanent employment, or gain exposure to different specialist provisions, this role offers a rewarding and flexible pathway within education. Why Work with Teaching Personnel? Teaching Personnel is the UK's leading education recruitment agency and has extensive experience supporting specialist schools and provisions across the region. Competitive pay rate of £14.25 per hour Flexible working arrangements to suit your availability Access to a wide range of SEND and SEMH settings Dedicated support from a specialist education consultant Ongoing professional development opportunities Access to accredited training and CPD courses Opportunities to expand your experience across multiple specialist provisions Long-term career guidance and support Access to future long-term and permanent vacancies Make an Impact Where It Matters Most If you are an experienced High Level Teaching Assistant seeking flexible work within specialist education and have the skills, confidence and expertise to support schools from day one, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to be considered for upcoming opportunities across Sturminster Newton and the surrounding area. For further information, call and ask for Himaya. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date. Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.