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Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Full-time - Special Needs Position

Ripplevale School and College - Rochester, Rochester

  • Ref:MED887-6006-165S
  • Posted:16/10/2025
  • Pay:FTE 26,599 (Actual Salary £ £21,530)
  • Start Date:Immediate
  • App Close Date:29/10/2025 at 12:00
  • Interviews:TBC

Advert

Your new company

Ripplevale School and College, is a thriving independent special school, for 170 students aged 6 to 25 years old, located in the historic town of Rochester. We are now seeking a passionate and experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our dynamic teaching and learning team.

Your new role

As a HLTA, you will play a pivotal role in complementing the professional work of teachers by leading agreed learning activities, supporting individual and group progress, and mentoring teaching assistants.
 
You will be responsible for:
  • Delivering structured learning programmes and interventions aligned with EHCPs
  • Supporting learners with a range of needs including behaviour, social skills, and academic development
  • Leading and mentoring teaching assistants, including induction, coaching, and performance development
  • Covering classes in the absence of a teacher
  • Promoting inclusion, safeguarding, and positive behaviour across the school
  • Collaborating with teachers, SENCo, and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to education
  • Supporting curriculum delivery, resource preparation, and ICT integration
  • Maintaining accurate records and contributing to learner reviews and progress tracking
This is a leadership-focused support role that requires initiative, empathy, and a commitment to high standards of care and education.

What you'll need to succeed

To be successful in this role, you will need:
  • HLTA status or equivalent experience in a school setting
  • Strong understanding of SEN and differentiated learning strategies
  • Proven ability to lead, mentor, and support other staff
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Confidence in managing behaviour and promoting positive learning environments
  • Ability to deliver interventions and support curriculum planning
  • Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and professional development
  • A proactive, flexible, and collaborative approach to working within a multidisciplinary team

What you'll get in return

  • A rewarding role where you make a meaningful impact on learners’ lives
  • Supportive leadership and a collaborative team culture
  • Opportunities for ongoing training, supervision, and career development
  • Competitive salary and term-time working pattern
  • A chance to contribute to a forward-thinking school with a strong ethos
Early application encouraged

Due to the high volume of interest in this position, we may close the vacancy before the stated deadline. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend applying as soon as possible.
 
Safeguarding recruitment statement

Ripplevale School Rochester is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants. Ripplevale School Rochester is required to conduct online searches about you as part of their shortlisting process in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.

Information about the school

Ripplevale Rochester is an independent specialist provision for students aged 6 to 25 who have been diagnosed with various needs, which may include ASD, dyslexia, speech, language and communication difficulties, DCD, sensory, social, emotional and other learning difficulties along with high levels of anxiety. The school is set in an historic Medway town and enjoys the outstanding community facilities and links that the towns of Chatham and Rochester have to offer.

Ripplevale provides a holistic child centred approach to education underpinned by our team of 98 Teachers, Teaching assistants, Administrators and Therapists, all working in a caring and nurturing environment, with a common belief that all students have the opportunity to make progress and experience success everyday, in a safe, caring, nurturing and secure environment.

Our site boasts well-resourced classrooms, small class sizes, music and drama facilities, Science labs, Therapy rooms, amazing vocational teaching areas such as our hair and beauty studios, a coffee shop, catering kitchens, as well as numerous areas for children to have fun and enjoy social times. Staff are both welcoming and friendly at this independent school and there is a collaborative approach where resources and best practices are shared.

Job Contact Information

  • Name:Brett Coventry
  • Address:13 New Road, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1BG
  • Telephone: 020 3818 7040
  • Email: ripplevale@hays.com

Apply for this Role Today

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Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you have read all the relevant information and documents provided by the school. If you are ready to apply for this vacancy please click the "Apply Now" button

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students. You are advised that this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and therefore this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please be aware that schools are also required to undertake online recruitment checks on shortlisted candidates under changes to Keeping Children Safe in Education.