Job Description

About the team we are recruiting to

Join our dedicated team at Castle Wood, a vibrant special needs school supporting 167 pupils aged 3 to 11 with a range of needs, including PMLD, SLD, ASD, and complex behavioural challenges. We're passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.


We offer:

Enthusiastic, happy children A welcoming, supportive team Personalised professional development Staff workwear Free tea, coffee, and on-site parking Excellent wellbeing benefits, including occupational health, counselling, salary sacrifice schemes (childcare vouchers, cycle to work) Local government pension scheme Opportunities to collaborate with experts Supportive governors and parents

What is the job role?

We're seeking dynamic Higher Level Teaching Assistants to work with children, including those with complex autism and challenging behaviours. The role involves leading classes in the absence of teachers, working 1:1 or in groups, and being flexible across various class teams. Experience with Early Years practice is preferred. The position is for 35 hours per week (Monday-Friday) and starts after Easter.


In this role, you will work closely with teachers and the team to plan, implement, and evaluate lessons for individuals and groups of pupils. You will support pupils' learning by using tailored strategies to help them meet their next steps and monitor their progress through observation and recording. Your responsibilities will include providing supervision during indoor and outdoor learning, offering objective feedback on pupil achievements, managing teaching resources, and promoting pupil independence using alternative resources. You will also collaborate with external agencies, assist with the welfare and care of pupils, including personal hygiene and first aid, and contribute to the school's ethos and development. Additionally, you'll support the training and development of other staff, participate in relevant meetings, and take on additional duties as required by the Headteacher.

This position is for a 1st September 2025 start.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for someone who:

Holds GCSEs in Maths and English grade 4/C or equivalent, and an NVQ Level 3 or higher in a relevant discipline. Has strong communication skills and is proficient with relevant technology. Can work effectively as part of a team, form positive relationships, and also demonstrate leadership when needed. Is committed to the well-being and progress of everyone at the school, including high aspirations for pupils and themselves. A good knowledge of the EYFS is advantageous, but a willingness to learn and embrace its principles is crucial.

Interview date: w/c 14th July 2025


Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced criminal record check via the DBS.

Following recommendations from Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for an additional pre employment check with effect 1 Sept 22, please note, an online search may form part of this recruitment process.


Our Values

Our vision, "Together, children first," reflects our belief that everyone plays a vital role in helping our pupils reach their full potential.


Our values drive everything we do at Castle Wood. The school values are honesty, integrity, trust, empathy, respect.