Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – SEN
Bloomsbury, London
Full-time | 8:30am–5:00pm
Candidates must have the right to work in the UK

About Us

Odyssey House School is a Good-rated special school (Ofsted) with 36 students on roll, providing a calm, nurturing and structured environment for young people with high-functioning autism and associated needs.

We are proud of our small class sizes (typically 6–8 students), high staff-to-student ratio, and strong focus on building positive relationships that enable students to re-engage with education and achieve meaningful outcomes.

Job Purpose

To work under the direction of teaching staff to support high-quality teaching and learning for pupils with special educational needs. The HLTA will play a key role in supporting students’ academic, social and emotional development within a structured and supportive school environment.

Key Responsibilities

Support for Teaching & Learning

• Support the delivery of planned lessons and learning activities under the direction of a teacher
• Deliver targeted interventions and small group learning sessions
• Provide 1:1 support for students where appropriate, in line with agreed plans
• Contribute to creating a positive, inclusive and engaging learning environment
• Assist with preparing resources and maintaining a well-organised classroom

Pupil Progress & Support

• Support pupils to engage in learning and develop independence
• Provide feedback to teachers on pupil progress and engagement
• Contribute to monitoring and recording progress as directed
• Support the implementation of EHCP targets and individual support plans

Behaviour & Wellbeing

• Promote positive behaviour in line with the school’s behaviour policy
• Support students’ social, emotional and mental wellbeing
• Work collaboratively with staff to ensure consistent approaches to behaviour and support

Collaboration & Teamworking

• Work closely with teachers, the SENCO and wider staff team
• Attend staff meetings, briefings and training as part of the school’s professional development programme
• Contribute to a positive and supportive team culture

Wider School Duties

• Support supervision of pupils at key times (e.g. break or lunch) as part of a rota
• Assist with educational visits and enrichment activities

What We Offer

• Small class sizes and a highly supportive staff team
• A clear and structured role with strong direction from teaching staff
• Ongoing CPD and training in SEN and behaviour support
• A purpose-designed, well-resourced learning environment
• A positive school culture focused on staff wellbeing and development

Who We’re Looking For

• HLTA qualification or relevant experience in a similar role
• Experience working with children or young people with additional needs (e.g. ASD, anxiety, SEMH)
• A calm, patient and flexible approach
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to inclusive education and supporting all learners

Safeguarding

Odyssey House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).