About this role
At West SILC, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to communicate, connect with others, develop confidence, and become as independent as possible.
We are seeking an exceptional Higher Level Teaching Assistant to lead a small specialist
post-16 class of 5-6 learners with significant learning, communication and sensory needs within our Powerhouse department.
This is a unique opportunity for a highly skilled practitioner who understands that communication sits at the heart of learning. Our learners require adults who can build trusting relationships, understand individual communication styles, and create highly personalised learning experiences that enable every learner to thrive.
Working alongside the wider multidisciplinary team, you will take a leading role in delivering a curriculum focused on communication, independence, community participation, emotional wellbeing and preparation for adult life.
The Role
You will:
✅ Take a leading role in the day-to-day running of a small specialist post-16 class
✅ Deliver engaging and highly personalised learning experiences for learners with complex communication and learning needs
✅ Use a range of communication approaches including visual supports, communication boards, AAC, objects of reference, symbols, signing and Intensive Interaction
✅ Develop learners' confidence, communication and ability to make choices and express themselves
✅ Support learners to become as independent as possible within everyday routines and real-life situations
✅ Lead community-based learning opportunities that help learners develop safety awareness, road safety skills, confidence in the local community and understanding of the wider world
✅ Deliver sensory-informed and regulation-focused approaches which enable learners to engage successfully in learning
✅ Work closely with therapists, families and other professionals to support individual EHCP outcomes
✅ Contribute to assessment, Evidence for Learning and learner progress
What we’re looking for.
The ideal candidate:
✔ Has substantial experience working with learners with SEND
✔ Has experience supporting learners with complex communication needs
✔ Understands the importance of communication as the foundation for learning, relationships and independence
✔ Can confidently lead learning activities and direct a class team
✔ Is nurturing, patient and highly reflective
✔ Understands sensory needs and how they impact engagement and learning
✔ Believes in developing independence through meaningful, real-life experiences
In return, we offer:
✨ A unique opportunity to lead a highly specialised post-16 provision
✨ Extensive SEND and communication-focused training
✨ Support from therapists and specialist practitioners
✨ Small class sizes and high staffing levels
✨ A welcoming and supportive team
✨ The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of young adults preparing for adulthood
Our setting is truly unique this is an opportunity to make a real difference to our learners on their journey into adulthood.
Visiting the PLC Pathway.
View the Powerhouse Life Changing pathway video on our website - PLC Pathway — West SILC
We think it is important for prospective candidates to visit our PLC Pathway, this is a very unique setting with learner independence and confidence truly at the heart of everything we do.
To book an appointment on one of the below dates please contact Rob Lakewood by leaving a message with the school office - 0113 386 2450 or email:
Wednesday 10th June 1:30pm
Monday 15th June 10:30am
Wednesday 24th June 10am
Please note our Powerhouse site is based at Springfield Mills, Bagley Lane, Pudsey LS28 5LY
West SILC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We promote diversity and want a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds. An enhanced DBS check is required for appointment to this post.
Applications are preferred to be submitted via My New Term (West SILC)
Closing date: 12 noon on Thursday 25th June 2026 (please note we may interview strong candidates before the closing date)
Interviews will be held week beginning Monday 6th July 2026