HLTA

Company Description

Divergent Schools provides a new, radically compassionate, model of special education for children in the missing middle - those children who need more specific support than mainstream schools offer, but who do not need the intensity of support typically found in special schools.

We have a flat organisational structure and a MD whose career has included SEND school teaching and Headship, meaning big decisions are never made without the involvement of someone who has lived a teaching career. We are proudly not-for-profit, and founded by two neurodivergent CoFounders, who have created Divergent Schools out of a determination to make the education system better for children with SEND.

The Divergent School Dover is our second in a growing national group of schools, providing a special school environment to children ages 11-16, the school will be co-ed and work mostly with children who have an EHCP. The school building is within the grounds of Dover College, who will also offer pupils use of facilities and some learning opportunities. 

It is our mission to contribute to the national offer for children with SEN/D. With contemporary approaches to neuro-inclusion and highly skilled, always qualified, staff we provide high quality education which is just the right fit for SENBetween children.

Our socials are a great place to get a sense of how our group, and established school, work. You can find us on @DivergentSchools on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok.

This is a rare opportunity for child-focused Higher Level Teaching Assistant to be part of building a new special school, with a new model, from the very beginning.

Role Description

The HLTA will be responsible for supporting the Class Teacher to deliver the curriculum of the school to their own class of 6 - 10 pupils. They will provide high quality support to pupils throughout lessons in all subjects in the national curriculum Key Stage Three framework. Lesson delivery is heavily individualised according to pupil's talents and special educational needs. Your work, including integration Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy approaches, will play a critical role in helping our pupils to be well and learn at school.

The HLTA will ensure the principles of the school are applied in their work in the classroom, genuinely keeping the child, and everything they have to offer, at the centre of their work. Pastoral support will also be an important element of the role.

• on-site, based in Dover

• term time only

• Mon - Fri, 8am - 4pm

• £25,000 salary

• paid pro-rata

• safer recruitment procedures apply

• passionate equal opportunities ethos

• passionate about protecting staff wellbeing

Qualifications

• Qualified Higher Level Teaching Assistant (holds HLTA qualification)

• At least two years experience as HLTA in a special school

• Comfortable supporting the Class Teacher across all Key Stage Three subjects

• Expertise in supporting children with SEND, with a focus on delivering excellent educational outcomes for neurodivergent children

• Sound knowledge of child centered and strengths lead practice

• Heartfelt belief in the rights of children with special needs to a quality education