Job Description
HLTA - Specialist Primary Provision (Autism & SEMH) - Poole - Immediate Start
A specialist primary provision in Poole is seeking a confident, resilient, and nurturing Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join their team, supporting pupils across KS1-KS2 with Autism, SEMH needs, communication differences, and barriers to learning.
The setting offers a warm, structured, and supportive environment where pupils are encouraged to feel happy, safe, and able to make meaningful progress. The successful candidate will work closely with the Inclusion Lead, supporting vulnerable learners, leading targeted interventions, and delivering lessons during teacher absence and PPA cover.
This is a full-time temp-to-perm opportunity, ideal for an experienced HLTA, an aspiring teacher, or someone with specialist strengths such as PE, Sports, Music, or Art.
Key Responsibilities
* Leading small-group and 1:1 support for pupils with Autism, SEMH needs, sensory differences, or communication challenges
* Delivering pre-planned lessons during teacher absence and PPA cover
* Supporting pupils who may experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation, or difficulties with transitions
* Using creative, therapeutic, and differentiated approaches to engage learners
* Promoting emotional wellbeing, safety, and positive behaviour throughout the school day
* Helping pupils develop communication, social interaction, independence, and self-regulation skills
* Building calm, trusting relationships using consistent, clear communication
Contract Details
* Location: Poole
* Position: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Specialist Primary Provision
* Start Date: Immediate
* Contract Type: Full-time, temp-to-perm (Part time considered)
* Pay: From £110 per day
* Hours: School hours, term-time
Requirements
To be considered, you must:
* Have the Right to Work in the UK
* Hold an enhanced child-barred list DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply)
* Provide professional references covering the last 24 months
* Hold an HLTA qualification or have substantial experience delivering learning and leading groups
* Experience supporting pupils with Autism, SEMH, or additional needs is highly desirable
What We Offer
* Free accredited CPD including safeguarding, behaviour support, and de-escalation
* Access to specialist SEN training and development pathways
* Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant
* A nurturing, well-resourced school with a strong staff culture and opportunities for progression
Refer a Friend
Know someone who would thrive in a specialist SEN environment? You can earn a referral bonus for every successful recommendation (T&Cs apply).
If you are resilient, creative, a strong team player, and passionate about supporting children with additional needs, we would love to hear from you. Please send an up-to-date CV consideration.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.