Specialist High Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA – SLD/PMLD, Group Provision)

Downright Excellent is seeking a skilled, confident and enthusiastic High Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) to join our specialist team, supporting children and young people with Down syndrome and associated complex needs.

This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a well-established charity, delivering high-quality, tailored provision that makes a meaningful difference to children and families.

About the Role

You will work with school-aged children, some of whom have Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and/or Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), as part of a multidisciplinary team.

A central part of the role is leading structured small group provision. You will plan and deliver engaging, carefully adapted group sessions that support:

· communication and interaction

· engagement and shared attention

· early learning and independence

You will play a key role in ensuring all children can participate meaningfully within a group learning context, while also responding to individual needs as required.

Sessions are primarily delivered face-to-face on Saturdays (term time only), with potential for additional planning or online work during the week. Flexible working arrangements may be considered.

Key Details

· Location: Tower Hamlets (nearest station: Hoxton)

· Working pattern: Saturdays, 8:30am – 2:00pm (term time only)

· Additional work: Optional weekday preparation or sessions

· Pay: £135.00/per day

· Contract type: [to confirm – sessional/freelance/employed]

About You

We are looking for someone with strong specialist experience and a commitment to inclusive practice. You will:

· Hold a HLTA qualification or equivalent (e.g. Level 4/5 in Supporting Teaching and Learning)

· Have substantial experience working with children with SLD and/or PMLD

· Be confident leading small group sessions and adapting learning for a range of complex needs

· Have experience supporting communication development (e.g. visuals, Makaton, AAC or similar approaches)

· Be proactive, calm, and able to respond flexibly to complex and changing needs

· Be committed to supporting children and families to achieve meaningful outcomes

Experience of working with children with Down syndrome would be highly beneficial.

Why Join Downright Excellent?

You will be joining a highly skilled, committed and supportive team, delivering specialist provision alongside experienced practitioners.

The children and young people you will work with are motivated, engaging and full of potential, and their families are actively involved and committed—creating a positive and rewarding environment for staff.

How to Apply / Find Out More

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:

Sandra Redman Service Manager sandra@downrightexcellent.org

To apply, please submit your CV. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview depending on the level of interest.

Closing date: 21 June 2026 at 12.00 noon

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Downright Excellent is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff, freelancers, and volunteers to share this commitment.

This role is subject to safer recruitment processes, including enhanced DBS checks, verification of qualifications, and satisfactory references.