Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - Term Time

The Orchard School, Canterbury

• Ref:KCC886-7062-280S
• Posted:02/04/2026
• Pay:KSC + SEN Allowance
• Start Date:ASAP
• App Close Date:29/04/2026 at 08:00
• Interviews:Tuesday 5th May 2026

Advert

Everyone Matters. Everyone Cares. 

At The Orchard School, we do things differently. We are not looking for a traditional HLTA. We are looking for someone who can step into the classroom, lead learning with confidence, and create consistency for pupils who need it most. 

About the Role 

This is a key role within our classroom teams. 

As an HLTA, you will: 

• Deliver planned lessons during teacher PPA 

• Lead learning during short-term teacher absence 

• Support pupils to stay engaged and successful 

• Maintain routines, expectations and relationships 

You will not be planning the curriculum. 

You will be delivering it with clarity, consistency and confidence. 

Why This Role Matters 

Our pupils need: 

• Predictable adults 

• Consistent routines 

• Calm, confident leadership

HLTAs provide that stability. 

They ensure that learning continues, expectations remain high, and pupils feel safe and supported every day. 

We are entering an exciting phase of development following our recent inspection, with a clear focus on strengthening consistency, classroom practice and pupil experience across the school. This role is central to that work. 

What Makes Us Different 

At The Orchard School: 

• Relationships come first 

• Behaviour is understood as communication 

• Staff work as a team around the child 

• Classrooms are calm, structured and predictable 

• Every adult uses a shared language: Ready, Respectful, Safe 

Our work is guided by The Orchard Way: 

Trust. Belonging. Aspiration. Voice. Pride. Curiosity. 

Who We Are Looking For 

You may already be an HLTA. 

Or you may be an experienced Teaching Assistant ready to step up. 

HLTA status or equivalent experience is desirable. You must be confident leading learning and maintaining classroom consistency 

What matters is that you: 

• Can confidently lead a class when required 

• Stay calm in challenging situations 

• Value consistency and routine 

• Build strong relationships with pupils 

• Want to be part of a team that supports each other 

Why Join Us 

• A clear and shared ethos 

• Strong team culture 

• Ongoing training and development 

• A role with real purpose and impact 

• The opportunity to shape a growing school 

This is not just a support role. 

It is a role that strengthens learning, stability and relationships across the school. 

At The Orchard School, Everyone Matters. Everyone Cares.

Information about the school

The Orchard School is a cross-phase special school for primary and secondary-aged pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, often alongside associated learning difficulties.

We are proud to be a Therapeutic Thinking and Inclusive school community, guided by The Orchard Way, where relationships come first, behaviour is understood as communication, and every pupil is supported to grow and thrive.

At The Orchard School, Everyone Matters, Everyone Cares. Our Mission, Vision and Values are at the heart of everything we do-shaping our approach to learning, support and personal development. We are committed to nurturing pupils’ social, emotional and mental health through trust, belonging, aspiration, voice, pride and curiosity.

Our pupils come from across East Kent and beyond. They are supported by a dedicated team who work closely with families, professionals and each other to ensure every learner feels safe, valued and empowered to succeed.

We are on an exciting journey of continuous improvement. Join us as we grow together-through compassion, clarity and purpose.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Cherith Stibbe
• Address:Cambridge Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3QQ
• Telephone: 01227 769220
• Email: cstibbe@orchard.kent.sch.uk

Fax: 01227 781589

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Job Description and Person Specification