Higher Level Teaching Assistant

Job Advertisement: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Position: Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)

Location: River Valley School & 1 ACE Provision, Sheffield / Rotherham area

Salary: £25,313 - £27,616 per annum (Dependent on Experience)

Contract Type: Full-Time, Term-Time (37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, aligned with Sheffield local authority terms)

About the Role

Are you passionate about helping vulnerable young people unlock their passion for learning? We are seeking a dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our growing team at River Valley School—our brand-new independent school bespoke for SEMH pupils in Sheffield, located adjacent to and working alongside the exciting Skills Street Project.

In this rewarding, trauma-informed role, you will support teachers within our purpose-built, Ofsted-registered school and provide local support to our 1 ACE (Another Chance Education) alternative provision when required. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will help children and young people—many of whom have experienced disrupted care—build emotional resilience, trust, and academic success.

Key Responsibilities

• Support teachers by assisting in classrooms and out in the community, following a flexible, structured approach.

• Work directly with SEMH pupils within a trauma-informed, therapeutic practice model.

• Support local 1 ACE alternative education provisions and outreach work when required.

• Help children build self-esteem, stability, and a renewed enthusiasm for learning.

• Collaborate closely with an experienced leadership team committed to student welfare, inclusion, and professional growth.

What We Are Looking For

• Experience working within a specialist education provision, alternative setting, or a deep passion for making a difference.

• A child-focused, empathetic approach with excellent communication and active-listening skills.

• Essential requirements: The Right to Work in the UK (a valid UK driving licence is desirable).

• Resilience, patience, and a commitment to providing consistency for young people who need it most.

Why Join Us?

At Five Rivers, we invest heavily in your professional progression, offering up-to-date training opportunities and dedicated personal development goals. Enjoy an inclusive workplace alongside fantastic benefits:

• Competitive Salary: £25,313 - £27,616 per annum (DOE).

• Financial Wellbeing: Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme and company pension.

• Recognition & Perks: Blue Light Card, Refer-a-Friend bonus scheme, Refer-a-Foster Carer bonus, and long-service recognition awards.

• Support Systems: Comprehensive Employee Support Programmes and continuous learning through our dedicated Learning & Development Team.

• Family Support: Enhanced maternity package for eligible mothers.