Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Communication & Language Development


Company:	eTeach UK Limited
Salary:	£26,348.32 - £28,526.03 per annum
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Wheatley, OX33 1NN
Working pattern:	On-site
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	8 Sept 2026
Closing date:	18 Sept 2026

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Summary

‘Safety. Learning. Independence. Communication. Engagement’John Watson School is looking to appoint a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) with a passion for supporting pupil communication to join our existing vibrant and friendly team in our all age special school. We are looking for someone who is experienced in special education and is confident, committed and a problem solver.The successful candidates will compliment the team at our school, demonstrate a commitment to learning, and enjoy working with children of all abilities and ages.John Watson School is a Special School with sites in Wheatley and Holton. We cater for children with Special Educational Needs from the ages of 2 - 19 years. We aim to create a happy, healthy and secure learning environment in which the needs of all pupils are met, enabling each child to reach their individual potential. We offer pupils opportunities for integrated educational experiences with their peer groups in the primary and secondary schools whose sites we share. We support pupils in developing their independence, social and communication skills that can be used at school, at home and in the community.Oxfordshire Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post involves the type of work with children and young people that requires applicants to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post. All cases are considered confidentially and according to the nature of the role and information disclosed.We are judged Good by Ofsted (October 2022) and we are ambitious in our vision for the future provision for our pupils. We offer small classes, typically less than 10 pupils per class, working within large teams of support staff and additional NHS therapists.What we OfferCompetitive salaryComprehensive induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEND trainingPaid wellbeing days and free flu vaccinationsOn-site parkingFlexible working options (part-time and job share considered)Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)Cycle to Work SchemeEmployee Assistance ProgrammeCycle to Work schemeRefer-a-friend bonus (earn up to £500)A welcoming, therapeutic and highly supportive school culture

About the RoleSupport high-quality teaching and learning across the school, with a particular focus on Communication and Language.Plan, prepare and deliver learning activities for individuals, small groups and, where appropriate, whole classes.Deliver communication-focused interventions to support pupils with SEND.Develop pupils’ communication, interaction, social skills and independence.Support and embed a Total Communication approach across the school.Work closely with teachers, therapists and other professionals to achieve positive outcomes for pupils.Model effective communication strategies and provide guidance and support to colleagues.Monitor, assess and record pupils’ progress and development.Support the development and implementation of individual learning and support plans.Promote inclusion, independence and positive behaviour throughout the school.Contribute to the wider school community, including supporting colleagues and new staff where appropriate.About YouExperience working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).Experience supporting pupils to develop their communication, language, social skills and wider development.A good understanding of child development, learning processes and positive approaches to supporting behaviour.HLTA qualification or equivalent experience, with strong literacy and numeracy skills.Good communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.Confident, proactive and able to use initiative, while knowing when to seek support.Able to build positive and productive relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents/carers and other professionals.A commitment to developing your own practice, sharing knowledge and contributing to the wider school community.How to ApplyIf you're looking for a rewarding role where you can genuinely make a difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.Apply today via the link provided and join our dedicated team at John Watson School. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

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