Higher Level Teaching Assistant

Hawthorn Academy, Wokingham, RG40 3BT

6 days remaining to apply

• Job start date

  1 September 2026

• Closing date

  22 June 2026 at 9am

• Date listed

  16 June 2026

Job details

• Job role:
  • HLTA (higher level teaching assistant)
• Visa sponsorship: Visas cannot be sponsored
• Working pattern: Full time
• Contract type: Permanent
• Full-time equivalent salary: Actual Salary £25,872.03 - £28.010.38 + £729 (Fringe Allowance) based on 32.5 hours/week TTO

Higher Level Teaching Assistant job summary

Hawthorn Academy-Reigniting Learning, Nurture, Connect, Thrive

Are you ready to grow your career in SEND?

We are seeking a caring, motivated and enthusiastic Higher Level Assistant to join our growing team. Whether you are experienced or looking for a rewarding career change, this is a genuine opportunity to support pupils with additional needs to achieve their potential.

Hawthorn Academy is a newly established specialist school in Bracknell, for pupils aged 11-16 with a range of complex Special Educational Needs. The school operates as a part of The Propeller Academy Trust, reflecting a strong commitment to high-quality, inclusive, and specialist provision.

We combine high-quality teaching with tailored support, recognising the individuality of each student and building on their strengths. Our rich and engaging curriculum is complemented by therapeutic approaches and strong pastoral care, enabling pupils to develop resilience, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

What we Offer

• Competitive salary
• Full induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEN training
• Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
• Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
• Local Government Pension (LGPS)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
• A strong, therapeutic and supportive school culture

About the Role

• Support teachers by delivering agreed learning activities under supervision
• Assist in implementing the National, Developmental, and School Curriculum
• Plan, prepare, and deliver learning sessions for individuals, small groups, or short-term whole classes
• Lead and develop a specialist area within the school
• Act as a key communication link between leadership, teaching staff, and TAs
• Support recruitment, induction, mentoring, and training of new TAs
• Supervise and support Teaching Assistants, including work allocation, monitoring, appraisal, and training
• Build positive relationships and act as a trusted adult
• Assist with planning, monitoring and reporting on pupil progress
• Work with parents, staff and external agencies to support outcomes
• Maintain safeguarding, wellbeing and professional standards
• Engage in ongoing training, including HLTA qualification (if required)
• Engage in ongoing professional development, including working towards HLTA qualification (if required)

 Who We’re Looking For

 

• GCSE English and maths (Grade 4/C or equivalent)
• HLTA qualification or equivalent, or willingness to complete the qualification within 6 months of starting in the role
• First-Aid training or willingness to complete it
• Strong experience supporting children or young people, ideally in a school or other educational setting
• Confident planning and leading teaching and learning activities (under supervision)
• Calm, patient and emotionally resilient
• Good literacy, numeracy and ICT skills
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Understanding of pupil needs, including SEND
• Ability to support teaching, learning and behaviour effectively
• Calm, resilient and able to manage challenging situations
• Knowledge of safeguarding and commitment to pupil wellbeing

How to Apply

To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager, Sandra Allen on 0118 3592449 or email recruitment@HawthornAcademy.org.uk- we would love to show you what makes our school such a special place.

Further information about the job

The candidate will be required to undergo a full enhanced DBS check and must be eligible to work in the UK.

Visas cannot be sponsored.

If you're interested in teaching or training to teach in England as an international citizen, we can help you understand your next steps.

Commitment to safeguarding

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.

Applying for the job

This school accepts applications through their own website, where you may also find more information about this job.

CVs will not be accepted for this application.

About Hawthorn Academy

• School type: Free School, ages 11 to 16
• School size: Up to 50 pupils
• Age range: 11 to 16
• Ofsted report: View Ofsted report
• School website: Hawthorn Academy website
• See more jobs: teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk/organisations/hawthorn-academy

Hawthorn Academy is dedicated to supporting every child’s social, emotional, and mental well-being alongside their learning, so they can grow into confident, fulfilled individuals.

We are more than a school; we are a caring community built on trust, respect, and understanding. Every pupil who joins us brings their own unique story and strengths, and we feel privileged to walk alongside them as they develop confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of self.
Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. We listen to their voices, value their perspectives, and involve them in shaping their learning and school community. This ensures that each young person feels empowered, respected, and truly included.

We provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where students feel valued and supported to build meaningful relationships, explore their interests, and develop the skills needed to thrive both inside and beyond the classroom.

Our commitment extends beyond school walls. By working closely with families, carers, professionals, and the wider community, we provide a supportive network that surrounds each pupil with encouragement and opportunities for growth.

School location

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