HLTA (Level 4)

Fernways School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our specialist team supporting students with mild to moderate special educational needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dyslexia, and communication challenges.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people by delivering high-quality, personalised support that promotes independence and progress against EHCP outcomes. You’ll be part of a passionate team committed to sustaining Fernways’ ambitious, skills-based curriculum.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the academic progress and well-being of individual students.
• Plan and collaborate with teachers to enhance learning experiences.
• Deliver specialist programmes developed by Occupational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists.
• Provide in-class support and lead small group interventions in phonics, reading, communication, and social skills.
• Develop bespoke interventions aligned with EHCP needs.
• Engage with students and families during and outside of school hours, including school events and residential visits.
• Support outdoor learning, social times, and extended provision programmes such as clubs, college placements, and work experience.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to student reports and annual reviews.
• Cover lessons and supervise students in the absence of teaching staff as directed by SLT.

Person Specification

• Experience working with students with ASD and other SEN needs.
• HLTA status or willingness to work towards a relevant qualification.
• Strong understanding of personalised learning and EHCP processes.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to Fernways’ vision, values, and high expectations.

Why work for us?

• A competitive salary (reviewed annually) and generous pension contributions for qualified clinicians
• Clinical supervision will be offered and will be discussed at interview
• Supportive and friendly school community
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• A rewarding role where you’ll make a real impact!

We value your hard work and dedication, and we’re committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children in our care.

When you join Kedleston Group, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect a supportive environment which enables you to excel in your role and grow in your career.

You will have access to an attractive benefits package including;

• Access to health and well-being programmes, including a free and confidential 24/7 helpline and counselling service
• Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform
• Cycle to work scheme
• Generous life cover

Who are we?

Fernways School is an independent specialist school which supports children and young people with an autism spectrum condition, the school has a lovely location in Windlesham, Surrey. Our focus is on maximising every child’s potential to develop into a confident, resilient, and skilled young person who will make a positive contribution to society and live as independent a life as possible.

Fernways School is part of Kedleston Group. We specialise in providing specialist education and care for children aged 7-19 with a range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These include autistic spectrum condition (ASC), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and social emotional and mental health needs (SEMH).

We are committed to safeguarding and protecting children and we expect all colleagues to share this commitment. We will do everything possible to ensure that only those who are suitable to work with children are recruited to work for us. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020 and is subject to a range of vetting checks including a criminal records disclosure.

We are a disability confident committed and equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all sections of the community.

teaching1002