Exciting Opportunity for a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in developing learning for young people within a forward-thinking, therapeutic educational setting for young people with autism, developmental trauma and complex mental health needs.
MindSenseAbility is specialist therapeutic education service supporting young people whose needs have not been met in traditional settings. Through a bespoke, multi-disciplinary approach, we combine education, therapy and family support to re-engage learners and enable successful transitions into education, training and adulthood.
We are excited to have recently completed a new purpose built independent special school, East Street Farm, set in the heart of the New Forest. East Street Farm specialises in supporting children age 8-16 with Autism, Emotional Based School Avoidance (EBSA) and associated mental health needs including developmental trauma.
Our beautiful school site hosts classrooms which can each cater for up to six pupils and a range of facilities including a sensory integration space, multiple therapy spaces, workshop, poly-tunnel and Forest School. Our multidisciplinary team includes Clinical Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists.
Our Ofsted registration is complete and we are ready to welcome our first pupils.
- Nurturing Belonging – creating safe, inclusive environments where every young person feels valued
- Supporting Growth – enabling progress through personalised, high-quality provision
- Inspiring Change – fostering resilience, independence and positive futures
The Role
You will play a key role in supporting pupils with special educational needs to achieve their academic, social and emotional potential. Working closely with teachers and therapists, you will deliver high-quality learning and intervention programmes both inside the classroom and in bespoke intervention spaces. You will support the implementation of education plans and EHCPs, and promote a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment. The role includes leading learning activities with individuals, small groups and whole classes of up to six pupils, helping to develop pupils' independence, confidence and engagement while contributing to the wider life of the school.
You will need to be able to work alongside an experienced teacher as part of a classroom team of staff which may include clinical staff. At times you will be required to lead the classroom as part of planned teacher release time or ad-hoc absence.
Experience of SEN is preferable but not essential. You may be a an experienced HLTA, a TA looking to progress or a qualified teacher looking for a change of circumstance.
We are looking for someone who:
· Will be inspired by children’s interests with an understanding of SEN needs
· Is dedicated, reflective and hardworking with a positive outlook
· Is a team player, able to create a purposeful learning environment
· Is able to understand confidentiality and safeguarding procedures
· Can engage with training and relevant professional development
· Is able to build relationships with all children
· Can use initiative and work independently
· Is able to bring new skills to a strong team
· Has high expectations of learning
· Has energy, enthusiasm and the ability to be flexible
· Understands the importance of growth and resilience
· Will model our values to our pupils
· Is prepared to go ‘the extra mile’ for every child
· Has interest in developing their pedagogical understanding alongside personal aspirations
We can offer you:
· A unique opportunity in a new specialist school
· A highly collaborative environment, working within a talented team of professionals from both educational and clinical backgrounds.
· Ongoing professional development
· A values-driven organisation with a strong focus on wellbeing and staff support
· The opportunity to make a genuine, transformative impact on the lives of young people and their families
· Pension scheme and additional wellbeing benefits
· Closing Date: Tuesday 14th July
· Interview Date(s): Tentatively booked for Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd July
· Job Start Date: September 2026
· Salary Details: £27,780 - £30,564 FTE (equivalent to Hampshire Pay Scale Grade D)
· Contract Type / Hours of Work: Permanent. Full time for 37.5 hours/week (part time hours will be considered). Term time only,
Application Procedure
For further details on the role, please contact Sandy Teal: [email protected] or 01590 626541
Enquiries and visits are welcome
For application forms and a copy of the job description, please email [email protected] or see the vacancies page of our website www.mindsenseability.co.uk
Completed applications and enquires about the recruitment process should be sent to [email protected]
MindSenseAbility is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Pay: £27,780.00-£30,564.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
