Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Part-time - Special Needs Position

Nexus Foundation Special School, Tonbridge

• Ref:KCC886-7051-652S
• Posted:21/04/2026
• Pay:KS 7/8
• Start Date:Immediate
• App Close Date:22/05/2026 at 09:00
• Interviews:tbc

Advert

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Primary Phase

Nexus School

Salary: Kent Scheme Grade 7/8 + SEN Allowance
Contract: Term Time Only (38 weeks + 5 INSET days)
Hours: 35 hours per week (08:30am – 4:00pm, Monday–Friday)
Start Date: As soon as possible

About Us

Nexus School is a forward-thinking special school dedicated to supporting pupils with a wide range of needs, including social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) and complex learning needs. We are passionate about providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child can thrive and achieve their full potential.

The Role

We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our Primary team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-quality teaching and learning experiences, working closely with teachers and leading learning when required.

You will:

• Plan, prepare and deliver learning activities to individuals, small groups and whole classes
• Adapt learning to meet the diverse needs of pupils
• Lead whole-class learning in the absence of a teacher (where appropriate)
• Assess, record and report on pupil progress
• Support pupils’ social, emotional and behavioural development
• Contribute to personalised learning plans and review processes
• Work collaboratively with staff, families and external professionals

This role has a significant impact on pupil outcomes, supporting both learning and wellbeing.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds HLTA status (or equivalent) and a Level 3 qualification
• Has experience working with primary-aged pupils, ideally within SEN
• Has strong knowledge of teaching, learning and behaviour management strategies
• Can lead learning confidently and manage a small team when required
• Is flexible, resilient and able to adapt to changing situations
• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Is passionate about supporting children with additional needs

A sense of humour, creativity and a genuine commitment to making a difference are essential.

What We Offer

• A supportive and collaborative team environment
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• The chance to specialise in areas such as behaviour, communication, wellbeing or sensory support
• A rewarding role where you can make a real difference to pupils’ lives

Safeguarding Commitment

Nexus School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory DBS checks and references.

In line with KCSIE 2025 guidance, as part of the shortlisting process, Nexus reserves the right to conduct an online search on shortlisted candidates as part of our due diligence and to share any pertinent information found concerning a candidate’s suitability to work with children with the Headteacher.

Information about the school

Nexus : the school where excellence meets opportunity.

Nexus is an ambitious school for children and young people aged 4-19 with profound, severe and complex needs, many of whom have a diagnosis of autism.

With currently 300+ pupils on roll, we continue to expand our provision and pupil numbers providing wonderful opportunities for our teaching and learning with a wide range of staff development routes.

Nexus invests in employing the best staff and in training them to achieve. We strive to engage staff who are self-motivated, professional and ambitious.

Nexus also has a small 40 student satellite provision in Wouldham

Job Contact Information

• Name:Nicki Riddle - Personnel
• Address:Upper Haysden Lane, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 8AA
• Telephone: 01732 771384
• Email: personnel@nexusschool.org.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• HLTA Job description and Personal Specification
• Child Protection Policy