Job Title: Higher Level Teaching Assistant – ELSA
Location: North Cambridge Academy, Cambridge
Salary: £26,765 – £29,562 per annum (pro rata)
Hours: 37 hours per week, term time only (39 weeks)
Contract Type: Permanent
Start Date: 1st September 2025
Application Deadline: 16th June 2025, 9:00 AM
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
Reference: [Insert Job Ref if applicable]
Job Overview
North Cambridge Academy is seeking a passionate and experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – ELSA to join our SENDV POD team. This role is vital to supporting students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, providing academic, pastoral, and therapeutic support to students and their families.
Reporting to the Vice Principal (Safeguarding and Pastoral Care) and the Assistant Principal (SENDVCo), you will be responsible for delivering targeted interventions, managing a team of Teaching Assistants, and helping to raise awareness of SENDV across the school community.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Plan and deliver support and guidance to vulnerable students with SEMH needs and their families
-
Provide academic, pastoral, and therapeutic assistance to students
-
Ensure the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of children with SENDV
-
Lead training sessions for staff on SEMH awareness and inclusive practices
-
Line-manage a team of Teaching Assistants, supporting their growth and performance
-
Work closely with teaching staff and leadership to develop inclusive learning strategies
The Ideal Candidate Will:
-
Be confident, resilient, and nurturing with a strong desire to help students thrive
-
Demonstrate excellent classroom practice and high standards of support
-
Have experience supporting students with SEND or challenging behaviours
-
Be qualified at Level 3 or higher as a Teaching Assistant (or willing to work towards it)
-
Be reflective, motivated, and committed to continuous improvement
-
Understand safeguarding and child protection principles and procedures
-
Thrive in a team environment and contribute positively to the school community
Why Join North Cambridge Academy?
-
Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ school with strong values and a diverse, inclusive community
-
A supportive, trauma-informed learning environment
-
Opportunities for meaningful CPD and progression within Meridian Trust
-
Recognition for Learning Outside the Classroom and sports excellence
Benefits Include:
-
Access to apprenticeship and CPD programmes
-
Defined benefit Local Government Pension Scheme
-
Dedicated Initial Teacher Training (ITT) pathways for future teachers
-
Employee Assistance Programme for mental health and wellbeing support
-
Cycle to Work scheme and staff discounts
-
Free eye tests, flu vaccinations, and on-site parking
For more on our benefits, visit: www.meridiantrust.co.uk/jobs-and-training/benefits
How to Apply:
To apply, please visit the Meridian Trust careers page and complete the online application form.
For further details or to request the Applicant Information Pack, please contact the school directly.
Deadline: Monday, 16 June 2025 – 9:00 AM
Expected Start Date: 1 September 2025
Early applications are encouraged. Meridian Trust reserves the right to close applications early if a suitable candidate is identified.
Commitment to Safeguarding and Equality:
North Cambridge Academy and Meridian Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds including age, gender, race, religion, disability, and sexual orientation.
APPLY