HLTA @ The Robert Smyth Academy

Are you passionate about supporting young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) to thrive both academically and socially? Do you want to be part of an ambitious, specialist provision where relationships, inclusion and individual success are at the heart of everything we do?

Built in 2023, Redwood is a purpose-built resource base designed to provide specialist support for up to 15 students with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition. As part of Robert Smyth Academy and the Tudor Grange Academies Trust, Redwood offers a highly structured, therapeutic environment where students feel safe, valued and nurtured, enabling them to reach their true potential.

Our vision is to eliminate barriers to learning through personalised support, specialist teaching and strong partnerships with families. We help young people celebrate their strengths, develop independence and acquire the skills needed to access employment, further education and fulfilling adult lives.

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our specialist team and make a meaningful difference to the lives of our students.

About the Role

As a HLTA within Redwood, you will work closely with the Lead Teacher of SEN and the team to support students with a range of learning, communication and sensory needs. You will use your knowledge and specialist skills to promote engagement, independence and achievement, whilst helping create a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Key responsibilities include

Supporting Students

• Assessing student needs and delivering targeted support to enhance learning and participation.
• Developing positive and supportive relationships with students whilst maintaining high expectations.
• Supporting and implementing individual education plans and personalised learning programmes.
• Encouraging independence, self-confidence and social inclusion.
• Monitoring student progress and providing constructive feedback on achievement and development.
• Acting as a positive role model for students.

Supporting Teaching and Learning

• Planning and delivering learning activities under an agreed system of supervision.
• Supporting the preparation of lesson plans, resources and learning materials.
• Monitoring and evaluating student progress against learning objectives.
• Recording and reporting on student achievement and development.
• Supporting behaviour management strategies that promote self-regulation and independence.
• Contributing to meetings with parents and carers and providing feedback on student progress.

Supporting the Curriculum

• Delivering learning activities and interventions tailored to student needs.
• Supporting the delivery of national learning strategies and wider curriculum activities.
• Using ICT effectively to enhance learning and develop student independence.
• Preparing and adapting resources to meet individual needs and learning styles.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who

• Has experience of working with children or young people, ideally within a SEND or ASC setting.
• Understands the barriers to learning experienced by students with Autism Spectrum Condition.
• Can build positive, professional relationships with students, families and colleagues.
• Has excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.
• Is committed to inclusion and raising achievement for all learners.
• Can work proactively both independently and as part of a specialist team.
• Shares our commitment to ensuring every young person feels safe, supported and successful.

Why Join Redwood?

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of our specialist provision within a successful secondary school. You will join a committed team that places student wellbeing and achievement at the centre of its work and provides opportunities for professional development and specialist training.

At Redwood, you'll have the opportunity to help shape the educational journey of young people with ASC and make a lasting impact on their future.

How to Apply

For further information about the role and to apply, please visit our website.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and other pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Join Redwood and help young people develop the confidence, independence and skills they need to flourish in education and beyond.