SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant

SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Full Time, Permanent

• Location: Leeds
• Start Date: September 2026
• Contract: Full Time, Permanent
• Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

NextGen Teachers are proud to be recruiting for an experienced SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) on behalf of a highly regarded specialist school in Leeds.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a purpose-built special school that supports pupils aged 5-16 with a range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Complex Communication Needs, Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). The school provides a highly personalised curriculum focused on communication, literacy, numeracy, independence, and life skills, delivered within a modern specialist learning environment.

The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting teaching and learning across the school, working closely with teachers and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality educational experiences for pupils with complex needs. You will lead learning activities, provide targeted interventions, and occasionally cover classes in the absence of a teacher.

Key Responsibilities

* Deliver planned learning activities to individuals, small groups, and whole classes under the direction of teaching staff

* Lead intervention programmes to support pupil progress and achievement

* Support pupils with a range of special educational needs, adapting learning approaches to meet individual requirements

* Assist in the planning, preparation, and delivery of engaging learning experiences

* Monitor, assess, and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teachers

* Promote positive behaviour, communication, independence, and emotional wellbeing

* Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, parents, and support staff

* Contribute to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

* GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics (or equivalent)

* A Level 4 qualification in Education, Supporting Teaching and Learning, HLTA, Childhood Studies, or a related field, or a relevant university degree

* Previous experience working as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Senior Teaching Assistant, or equivalent role

* Experience supporting pupils within a specialist SEN school setting

* Experience working with pupils with Autism, communication needs, learning difficulties, and/or complex needs

* Strong knowledge of SEN strategies and inclusive teaching practices

* Excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills

* The confidence to lead learning activities and support whole-class teaching

* A patient, resilient, and proactive approach to supporting young people

What We Offer

* A full-time, permanent position from September 2026

* The opportunity to work within a specialist setting with excellent facilities and resources

* A supportive leadership team and collaborative staff culture

* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

* The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with additional needs

If you are an experienced SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant looking for your next permanent opportunity in Leeds, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your CV to NextGen Teachers today.

NextGen Teachers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role.