Higher Level Teaching Assistant (ART)

Pinderfields Hospital PRU The Wrenthorpe Centre is a site that supports young people aged 11 - 18 who are deemed medically unfit for their mainstream school. We offer life skills and a wide range of GCSE/ Functional Skills/BTEC accreditations alongside a functional skills/entry level pathway. Behaviour at the site is excellent. We are currently looking for a permanent Higher Level Teaching Assistant – Art

The purpose of the HTLA is to

• support the children with their learning and general wellbeing to ensure every child has the best opportunity to reach their full potential in a caring and safe environment. Where necessary this may include supporting with medical care needs from time to time as well as positive behaviour management adopting a tailored approach to the individual child
• work in partnership with Class Teachers to support pupils’ needs and learning in line with the school curriculum, codes of practice and school policies and procedures
• have particular and specific responsibility for the Art, Crafts and Design curriculum and related qualifications, taking specific whole school responsibility for the preparation, maintenance and control of stocks of materials and resources as required for the Art, Crafts and Design curriculum and the Arts Award certificate
• plan and implement learning activities/teaching programmes as agreed with the teacher, adjusting activities according to pupils’ responses as appropriate
• Under the guidance of a teacher, implement learning activities and experiences, appropriate to the class group, by supporting the delivery of a broad and balanced curriculum aiming at pupils achieving their full potential in all areas of learning.
• Work with individuals or lead small groups of children in the absence of the main teacher. When taking the lead for these sessions, instruct and guide other TAs that are supporting students 1:1.
• Take responsibility for classroom assistance, working with class teachers in order to help promote effective teaching and learning for pupils;
• Support and supervise pupils throughout the school day whilst promoting independence, self-esteem and social inclusion;
• Implement, and with support where necessary, adjust learning activities as agreed with the teacher. Reinforce learning concepts presented by teachers
• Work with the children and support their learning, providing further explanation where needed, and work towards meaningful qualifications.

We are looking for someone, ideally, with an interest/qualification in ART, a good understanding of our pupils' special educational needs and/or prior experience of working in education to:

• support teachers in delivering an appropriate and outstanding curriculum
• support young children in key stage 3 and 4, who have complex special educational and health needs
• be able to maintain a positive approach when faced with challenges
• support assessment within the provision
• participate as a team member in the operation, promotion, evaluation and development of the PRU and to work collaborately
• ensure the safety and welfare of all pupils

We will offer:

• A unique opportunity to develop your skills
• Experience which will extensively enhance your professional development
• A dedicated team of staff
• Experienced and supportive management who recognise and promote a positive work/life balance
• A high quality working environment with a calm, welcoming ethos
• An additional wellbeing day

Details of our service can be found at www.pinderfieldshospitalpru.co.uk or for an informal chat, or to arrange a visit to school please contact Diane Cameron 01924 298351

The successful applicant will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure Application Form and to provide criminal conviction information. For further information please visit: jobs.wakefield.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the Recruitment Line on 0845 6036049 (typetalk calls welcome) or email: jobs@wakefield.gov.uk for an application form

Completed application forms should be returned to Pinderfields Hospital PRU, The Wrenthorpe Centre, Imperial Avenue, Wrenthorpe, Wakefield WF2 0LW or emailed toadmin@hospitalschools.wakefield.sch.uk by noon Wednesday 7th October 2026 interviews will be held on Wednesday 14th October 2026