34 days remaining to apply

  • Job start date

    2 September 2026

  • Closing date

    31 May 2026 at 11:59pm

  • Date listed

    27 April 2026

Job details

Job role

  • HLTA (higher level teaching assistant)

Visa sponsorship

Visas cannot be sponsored

Working pattern

Part time

Contract type

Permanent

Pay scale

Grade E

What skills and experience we're looking for

Higher Level Teaching Assistant – Woodlands School

We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled, committed and proactive Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join Woodlands School — an inspiring, modern and fully adapted learning environment that enables our pupils to thrive.

About the Role

This is a varied, responsible and highly rewarding role. As an HLTA, you will work in close partnership with class teachers to and ensure high-quality provision across the school day.

You will take responsibility for agreed learning activities, including planning, delivering and evaluating learning for individuals, groups and, on occasion, whole classes under an agreed system of supervision.

You will provide leadership, supervision and performance support for Education and Health Care Assistants (EHCAs) within the class.

About You

We are looking for an experienced, confident and reflective practitioner who:

  • Has strong communication, organisation and problem-solving skills
  • Can work effectively under direction while also showing initiative and leadership
  • Is resilient, adaptable and committed to safeguarding and high standards of care
  • Can support, guide and develop other staff through supervision and collaboration
  • Is confident in using technology to support learning and record pupil progress

Experience in a special school or SEND setting is highly desirable. You will need the skills and confidence to meet pupils’ complex needs, with training and ongoing professional development provided.

What the school offers its staff

Why Woodlands?

Woodlands is a unique and welcoming place to work. We offer:

  • A warm, supportive and highly skilled staff team
  • Strong induction and regular training opportunities
  • Opportunities to develop specialist skills and leadership expertise
  • A values-driven culture focused on empowerment, dignity and high expectations

This is a role where you can make a meaningful difference every day — not just to pupils, but to colleagues and the wider school community.

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

Woodlands school is committed to safeguarding and promoting equality of opportunity.
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Applying for the job

This job requires you to download an application form, you will be able to upload the application once complete.

CVs will not be accepted for this application.

About Woodlands School

School type
Special school, ages 2 to 19
School size
87 pupils enrolled
Age range
2 to 19
Ofsted report
View Ofsted report
School website
Woodlands School website
Email address
hr@woodlands.plymouth.sch.uk
See more jobs
teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk/organisations/woodlands-school-plymouth

Woodlands School is based in Plymouth, in the South West of England. Named Britain’s Ocean City, we are close to the sea and moors. With almost ten miles of coastline which is home to a host of marinas, docklands and seaside promenades, Plymouth is a great coastal location. Ideal for those that love the outdoors but also wish to live or be near to an urban area.
Woodlands is an inspiring place to work. At present there are 87 pupils on roll, aged 2 to 19. These young people have a range of complex needs, both physical and with their learning. Over the years we have realised that it takes versatile people to support our pupils, as no two days are ever the same. Our specially developed curriculums adapt to the changing needs of our young people and this, along with their health and care needs, provides the focus of the day.

Arranging a visit to Woodlands School

To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email hr@woodlands.plymouth.sch.uk.

School location

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