Job Description

• The Willows Primary School
• Address: Downing Close, Ipswich IP2 9ER
• Salary: Grade 4 (point 15)
• Hours: Part time, 32.5 hours per week, 39 weeks a year
• Contract: Permanent, required from 1 September 2026
• Reference: 8974

The Willows Primary School are seeking a compassionate and highly motivated Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA, Specialist SEND Unit) to become part of the founding team for this exciting new provision.

In September 2026 we are thrilled to be opening The Rockpool, our specialist SEND provision for up to 12 Key Stage 1 children with Communication and Interaction needs, including autism spectrum disorder.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment where every child is celebrated and supported to thrive.

As a creative, resilient and highly organised practitioner you will:

• be instrumental in creating a safe, stimulating and inclusive learning environment where strong, trusting relationships enable every pupil to thrive socially, emotionally and academically
• support children to develop communication, emotional regulation, independence and confidence through nurturing and consistent approaches
• deliver engaging and personalised learning activities that make learning enjoyable, meaningful and memorable
• Work closely with the class teacher and SENDCo to support an ambitious, differentiated curriculum tailored to individual strengths, interests and developmental needs
• support inclusion opportunities within the wider school community and help ensure every child feels a sense of belonging
• nurture children and families by encouraging positive self-image, resilience, independence and self-worth
• show true team player qualities by working collaboratively with colleagues and contributing to the wider life of the school
• Ensure every day counts for every child

In return we can offer:

• The opportunity to be part of something truly special from the very beginning
• A supportive ethos where your contribution will be recognised and valued
• Opportunities to work collaboratively with staff, therapists and external agencies to share best practice and enjoy high-quality professional development opportunities
• A role where you will genuinely know you are making a difference in the lives of children and families
• A warm welcome from our wonderful children when you visit

If you are passionate about supporting children with, SEND and committed to championing every child’s right to learn, communicate and belong, we would love to hear from you.

Come and help us build something extraordinary at The Rockpool!

For more information

Please read the (pdf), Equal Opportunities (word)and Person Specification (pdf) or alternatively, please visit our website

How to apply

Please submit your completed Application Form (word) via email to: n.batley@omat.org.uk

Please note: We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application to as early as possible.

Closing date: 9 am, 8 June 2026.

The Willows Primary School is an Orwell Multi Academy Trust Academy, and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks