Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Make a meaningful difference. Empower one child to thrive.

Job Title: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (1:1)
Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham
Salary: £22,170 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday | 40 hours per week | 8am-4.30pm
Contract: Fixed Term | Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026

Early applications are encouraged — we may interview and appoint before the advertised closing date.

Akeley Wood, part of the Blenheim family, is a thriving co-educational independent school set across three beautiful campuses in the Buckinghamshire countryside. Welcoming pupils from 12 months to 18 years, we are a warm, inclusive and ambitious community where every child is known, valued and supported to achieve their very best.

Our learning environments are designed to inspire — from specialist classrooms to woodland outdoor areas, creative studios and modern sports facilities. We are proud of our strong pastoral culture, our commitment to individual strengths and our belief that meaningful relationships drive student success.

Joining Akeley Wood School means joining a caring, collaborative team who believe in high expectations, compassion and the transformative power of education.

The Role

We are seeking a well-qualified and experienced Higher Level Learning Support Assistant (HLLSA) to provide 1:1 support for a student with specific needs outlined in their EHCP.

This is an EHCP-funded role, and although the contract is fixed term, it is anticipated to extend each academic year for as long as the student attends the school and continues to qualify for funded support.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Understand and support the specific needs of the pupil as outlined in their EHCP and support plan.
• Implement tailored strategies to help the pupil learn effectively and feel confident, supported and included.
• Carry out interventions, classroom support and pastoral support as directed by the SENDCo and Class Teacher.
• Promote positive behaviour and help create a calm, structured and encouraging learning environment.
• Adapt and provide differentiated resources to ensure the pupil can access the curriculum.
• Support the pupil in a range of settings: in class, during transition times, assemblies, break times and throughout the school day.
• Assist with the pupil's social interactions, concentration, engagement and emotional regulation.
• Build a trusting, supportive relationship with the pupil and their family, maintaining excellent communication.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, specialists and the Learning Support Team to enhance teaching and learning.
• Reinforce self-esteem and celebrate small steps of progress, helping the pupil develop confidence and independence.
• Contribute to the wider teaching team by bringing energy, compassion and proactive thinking.

About You

We are looking for someone who brings:

• A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) qualification.
• Experience supporting young people with additional needs.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relationships with pupils, parents and staff.
• A warm, empathetic and patient approach.
• Strong organisation, resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Confidence using ICT for learning support, communication and record-keeping.
• A commitment to professional development and reflective practice.
• A belief that every child can succeed with the right support.

Why Join Akeley Wood Senior School?

You will join a caring, collaborative and forward-thinking staff team who share a passion for supporting young people and enabling them to thrive.

You can expect:

• A supportive, nurturing working environment
• Strong pastoral values and a culture built on kindness
• Opportunities for professional growth and training
• A beautiful school setting with excellent facilities
• A team that celebrates individuality and the power of relationships

Safeguarding Commitment

Akeley Wood School and Blenheim Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to follow safeguarding policies and undertake relevant training. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media checks.

We may close this vacancy early if a high volume of suitable applications is received.