Higher Level Teaching Assistant

HLTA with responsibility for Forest School and covering PPA

Part-Time (2 Days per Week) - Potential to Expand to Full-Time

Passionate About Outdoor Learning?

We are seeking an enthusiastic, creative and motivated individual to join our special school community for two days per week, leading our Forest School provision and providing PPA cover across the school.

This is an exciting opportunity to inspire students with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) through outdoor learning, helping them develop communication, confidence, resilience, independence and wellbeing whilst exploring and connecting with the natural world.

The Role

The successful candidate will:

• Lead engaging Forest School sessions for students across the school, including those with complex learning difficulties, autism and additional communication and sensory needs.
• Plan and deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences that are accessible, inclusive and tailored to individual needs.
• Provide PPA cover as required.
• Foster students' independence, confidence, communication and emotional wellbeing through nature-based learning.
• Create a safe, stimulating and nurturing outdoor environment where every student can succeed and engage at their own level.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and support staff to ensure the best outcomes for all students.

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Has experience working with children or young people in an educational, childcare, outdoor learning or care setting.
• Is passionate about supporting students with SEND to achieve their full potential.
• Understands that communication, engagement and achievement can look different for every student.
• Can build positive and trusting relationships with students, families and staff.
• Is organised, flexible and able to adapt activities to meet a wide range of needs and abilities.
• Holds a Forest School qualification or is willing to undertake training.

Training Opportunity

We recognise that great Forest School leaders come from a variety of backgrounds. Therefore, for the right candidate, the school will fund and support a recognised Forest School qualification, providing an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their skills and build a career in outdoor and SEND education.

Future Development Opportunity

This post is initially offered for 2 days per week, however there is significant potential for the role to grow.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who would be interested in expanding the role into a full-time, 5-day-per-week position. This could include combining Forest School leadership and PPA cover with Teaching Assistant responsibilities for an additional three days each week, supporting students with complex SEND across the school.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking a long-term position with opportunities for professional development, career progression and increased responsibility within a highly supportive special school environment.

We Offer

• A friendly, supportive and experienced staff team.
• Enthusiastic students who respond positively to creative and practical learning opportunities.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• The opportunity to develop and shape our Forest School provision.
• Funding and support to gain a Forest School qualification where required.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of students with complex SEND.

We warmly encourage visits to our school so you can see for yourself all that we can offer. Please contact the school office to arrange a convenient time.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Please note: The salary indicated is based on a pay scale. New appointments are normally made at the bottom of the scale. Progression through the scale is dependent on length of service in line with our pay policy

All applications should be made via MyNewTerm

The Partnership Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.