Higher Level Teaching Assistant

The successful candidate will lead and deliver a range of targeted interventions, working particularly with pupils who have literacy difficulties, SEND and/or English as an Additional Language. You will have a key role in delivering Lexonik Advance and Lexonik Leap , supporting pupils to develop their reading fluency, vocabulary, decoding, spelling and comprehension. You will also support our provision for EAL pupils , working with colleagues to help students develop the language and literacy skills they need to access the secondary curriculum. An important part of the role will be the development and delivery of wider learning interventions. This will include using MeLSA (Mediated Learning Support Approach) principles to help pupils develop their thinking, memory, metacognition, independence, and confidence as learners. You will be expected to take ownership of interventions from identification and planning through to delivery, assessment, and evaluation. You will monitor pupil progress, analyse the impact of provision, and work closely with colleagues to ensure that intervention is making a measurable difference. You will also have the opportunity to: contribute to the development of our whole-school reading culture; support pupils with SEND and additional learning needs; deliver individual and small-group interventions; support EAL learners, including newly arrived pupils; contribute to literacy and learning CPD; share effective practice with colleagues; support the development of intervention resources; contribute to provision mapping and evaluation; lead or deliver other targeted academic interventions according to school need. What are we looking for? We are looking for someone who: has HLTA status or an equivalent Level 4 qualification, or is willing to work towards this; has GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above; has experience of working within a school environment; has experience of delivering literacy or other targeted interventions; understands the barriers that can affect reading and learning; has experience of supporting pupils with SEND; has excellent communication and organisational skills; can build positive relationships with pupils while maintaining high expectations; is confident working independently and as part of a wider team; is committed to using assessment and evidence to demonstrate impact; is passionate about helping young people become confident and independent learners. Lexonik training, MeLSA training, EAL experience or relevant literacy/SEND qualifications would be highly desirable. However, we are also interested in candidates who have the right experience, skills and commitment and are keen to develop their expertise through further training. Professional development We are committed to developing our staff. The successful candidate will have opportunities to undertake relevant professional development, which may include Lexonik, MeLSA, EAL, literacy intervention, SEND, safeguarding and other specialist training relevant to the needs of the role. Why join us? At The Challenge Academy Trust, we are building a culture that champions better work and working lives across the Trust; a framework to support and develop our workforce from ‘hire to retire’. We are committed to providing a workload that is fair and reasonable, work environment where employee health and wellbeing are actively supported and promoted and structured personal and professional development. We promote a balanced workload and a supportive work environment focused on wellbeing. Opportunities for continuous personal and professional development through "Education Connect" and resources from the National College. Benefits include complimentary tea/coffee, participation in pension schemes, Occupational Sick Pay Scheme, access to TCAT+ for discounts and wellbeing resources, and more. A commitment to safeguarding, equal opportunities, and a culture of inclusivity and fairness. Safeguarding The Challenge Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. How to apply Please complete the support staff application form and return it to Jacqui McInnes at j.mcinnes@bridgewaterhigh.com Closing date: Wednesday 30th September 2026 at 12 Noon We welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate the skills, experience and commitment required to make a positive difference to our pupils.