Join Our Caring Community at Wood End Infant and Preschool – SEND HLTA Opportunity! 

Wood End Infant and Preschool is a nurturing, inclusive setting where every child is celebrated and supported to reach their full potential. We are currently seeking a passionate and experienced SEND Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our dedicated team. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with special educational needs, working in a vibrant environment that values empathy, creativity, and collaboration. If you’re committed to supporting diverse learners and thrive in a child-centred atmosphere, we’d love to welcome you to our school family.

We are seeking an experienced HLTA to work with SEND pupils specifically, with a planned move to our proposed specialist unit from April 2026 (subject to consultation and rollout). 

• Deliver high-quality support and interventions for SEND pupils across EYFS and KS1
• Work closely with the SENDCo and teaching staff to plan and deliver tailored learning activities
• Support the emotional, social, and academic development of children with a range of needs
• Contribute to the setup and development of our proposed specialist unit, launching in April 2026 (subject to consultation)
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to EHCP reviews and provision mapping

Person Specification:

• Qualifications: HLTA status or equivalent; SEND experience is essential
• Experience: Proven experience supporting children with SEND, including autism, speech and language needs, and SEMH
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of inclusive practices, safeguarding procedures, and differentiated learning
• Skills: Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability; confident in managing behaviour and supporting emotional regulation
• Values: Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and promoting the welfare of children in line with KCSIE 2025

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment:

• Wood End Infant and Preschool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references in line with KCSIE 2025 guidance
• All pre-employment checks will be conducted in accordance with safer recruitment practices, including identity verification, right to work checks, and employment history scrutiny
• Applicants must disclose any relevant information that may affect their suitability to work with children

 Additional Information:

• This is a fixed-term contract for 30.5 hours per week, with the potential to become permanent should the specialist unit be successfully launched in April 2026
• Term-time only contract
• Start Date: January 2026

Job and person specification attached