Welcome to Orchard Manor School
At Orchard Manor School, we are proud to be a truly inclusive community where every pupil is known, valued and supported to thrive. Our work is grounded in our core values of respect, relationships, kindness, community, and health & happiness, which shape everything we do.
We are a specialist school with an outstanding residential provision, supporting pupils aged 3–19 with autism, communication and interaction needs, and associated learning needs. Through strong relationships, high aspirations and a nurturing approach, we create an environment where pupils feel safe, understood and able to succeed.
Set within beautiful woodland grounds near the seaside town of Dawlish, our school offers a unique learning environment where outdoor learning, creativity and individualised support are central to school life.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a passionate, adaptable and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our team.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working directly with pupils, thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to make a genuine difference every day. The role will involve covering classes across the school under the guidance of teaching staff and senior leaders, alongside supporting pupils’ learning, wellbeing and development.
We are looking for someone who can bring energy, warmth and confidence into the classroom whilst building positive relationships with pupils and staff alike.
This role would suit:
1. An experienced HLTA looking for a rewarding specialist setting
2. Someone aspiring to become a teacher in the future
3. A confident Teaching Assistant ready to take the next step in their career
At Orchard Manor School, we are committed to developing our staff and creating opportunities for professional growth and progression.
About the Role
As an HLTA, you will:
4. Lead whole-class learning during the short-term absence of teachers
5. Support pupils both within and beyond the classroom environment
6. Adapt learning activities to meet individual pupil needs
7. Help create engaging, structured and positive learning experiences
8. Work collaboratively with Teachers, Teaching Assistants and wider professionals
9. Support pupils to develop confidence, independence and communication skills
10. Contribute to a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment
11. Build positive relationships with pupils, families and colleagues
You will work across our pathways and may support pupils with a range of communication, sensory, social and learning needs.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
12. Is passionate about supporting children and young people with SEND
13. Builds strong and nurturing relationships
14. Is adaptable, resilient and positive
15. Can confidently lead learning and engage pupils
16. Has experience working within educational or SEND environments
17. Understands the importance of communication, inclusion and pupil wellbeing
18. Works collaboratively and contributes positively to the wider school community
19. Has high expectations alongside kindness, patience and empathy
Experience working with autistic pupils or pupils with complex needs would be highly valued.
Why Join Orchard Manor School?
20. A welcoming, supportive and values-led school community
21. Opportunities for professional development and career progression
22. A collaborative and highly skilled staff team
23. The chance to make a meaningful impact every day
24. A unique specialist setting with outdoor learning opportunities
25. Access to Trust-wide support, wellbeing initiatives and benefits
26. Part of the Special Partnership Trust — a specialist Trust committed to raising standards in SEND education
Find Out More / Visit Us
We warmly encourage informal visits so you can experience our school community and values in action.
If you would like to get a feel of our school do have a look at our social media pages too - we are on, and. Our website is
27. Email:
28. Telephone: 01626 862363
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of our safeguarding policy can be found here: This role falls under KCSIE regulated activities and as such it is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relating to children.
The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check. Please ensure you read and understand our Privacy Notice, which is attached with this pack, before applying. We make appointments in accordance with our Recruitment and Selection Policy.
How to apply
Please complete your application on My New Term. Applicants are advised that submitting an incorrect or insufficiently completed application form will result in non-selection for interview.
Particular attention should be made to career history since secondary education and referees meeting the required criteria.
Closing Date: Friday 19th June 2026 at 4:00pm.