HLTA - Year Lead - Maternity Cover (Autism Resource Base) - (Internal)

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Year Lead

Grade: 7 (Dependent on experience)
Hours: 32.5 hours per week, Term Time Only plus INSET days
Contract: Maternity Cover
Start date: September 2026

Bitterne Park School is seeking to appoint a dedicated, enthusiastic and highly organised Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Year Lead to join our successful Autism Resource Base (ARB).

This is a rewarding opportunity to play a pivotal role in supporting autistic students within a specialist provision that is fully integrated into a thriving mainstream secondary school. As a Year Lead, you will take responsibility for supporting a designated cohort of students, acting as a key point of contact for students, families and staff, whilst ensuring that each young person receives the support they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead support and provision for a designated ARB year group.

• Build strong relationships with students, parents/carers and staff.

• Monitor student wellbeing, engagement, attendance and progress.

• Deliver targeted interventions and personalised support programmes.

• Support students in developing independence, self-regulation and social communication skills.

• Work collaboratively with teaching staff to adapt learning and remove barriers to achievement.

• Contribute to EHCP reviews, annual reviews and transition planning.

• Liaise with external agencies and professionals as required.

• Support the smooth day-to-day operation of the ARB.

• Promote inclusive practice and positive outcomes for all students.

We can offer

• A highly regarded and well-established Autism Resource Base.

• A supportive and experienced SEND team.

• Excellent opportunities for professional development.

• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

• Employee wellbeing support and assistance programmes.

• The opportunity to make a significant and lasting difference to the lives of young people and their families.

In line with Department for Education guidance, Keeping Children Safe in Education, we are required to carry out an online search on all shortlisted candidates. Should any concerns be identified, they will be discussed with you at interview.

Bitterne Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks, along with other relevant employment checks. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Requirements

• Holds HLTA status or has substantial experience in a specialist educational setting.

• Has experience working with autistic children and young people and/or those with additional needs.

• Has a strong understanding of SEND and inclusive educational practice.

• Is able to build positive, professional relationships with students, families and colleagues.

• Has excellent organisational and communication skills.

• Can work independently and use initiative whilst contributing positively to a wider team.

• Is committed to helping young people achieve their full potential.

Benefits

• Private Healthcare Options for you & your family*
• On-site Gym & Personal Training Sessions
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave
• Electric Car Scheme
• Self Directed CPD fund
• Charity Giving
• Cycle to Work scheme