Salary: £27,463–£29,982 per annum (actual salary, NOT pro-rata)
Location: Bristol area
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm
Contract: Full-time | Term-time only
Start Date: November 2026
Looking for a rewarding SEN role with fantastic benefits and term-time-only hours?
Simply Education is recruiting an enthusiastic and experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join a brand-new specialist school supporting children and young people aged 5–19 with Autism (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a new school from the very beginning, with an excellent salary, shorter working days, fully funded training and the chance to make a genuine difference.
What makes this opportunity different?
This isn't your typical classroom-based HLTA role.
You'll have the opportunity to deliver creative, engaging learning experiences both indoors and outdoors, using purpose-built facilities including:
* Dedicated outdoor learning spaces and secure playing fields
* A multi-use games area (MUGA)
* Specialist Art, Design Technology and Science classrooms
* A practical teaching kitchen for developing life skills
* Indoor and outdoor sensory and quiet spaces
You'll be joining a supportive specialist setting where every pupil is encouraged to develop their confidence, independence and love of learning.
What you'll be doing
* Leading lessons and providing classroom cover when required
* Delivering engaging learning activities to individuals, small groups and whole classes
* Supporting pupils with ASD, SEMH and additional learning needs
* Using outdoor and practical activities to make learning more engaging
* Supporting positive behaviour, emotional regulation and pupil wellbeing
* Working closely with teachers and other professionals to support pupil progress
* Helping create a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment
What we're looking for
* HLTA Diploma or equivalent Level 4 qualification
* GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above
* Experience supporting children or young people with SEN, ASD or SEMH
* Confidence leading learning activities and managing classroom behaviour
* A patient, positive and creative approach to supporting young people
* An interest in outdoor education and practical learning
Experience in a specialist SEN school or outdoor education setting would be advantageous but isn't essential.
Fantastic employee benefits
Alongside your salary and term-time-only working pattern, you'll receive access to:
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
* UK Healthcare
* £1,000 refer-a-friend scheme
* Life assurance
* High street discounts through Perkbox
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Car scheme
* Fully funded training and qualifications
Ready for something different?
If you're an experienced HLTA looking for a rewarding opportunity with excellent benefits, a supportive environment and the chance to help shape a brand-new specialist school, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today with your CV or contact Ioan at Simply Education for an informal, confidential chat.
Call: (phone number removed)
WhatsApp: (phone number removed)
Simply Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Successful applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check
Salary description
£27463.00 - £29982.00 per year