HLTA, Special Needs ​/ Learning Disabilities, Education ​/ Teaching

Welcome to Orchard Manor School

At Orchard Manor School, we are proud to be a truly inclusive community where every pupil is known, valued and supported to thrive. Our work is grounded in our core values of respect, relationships, kindness, community, and health & happiness, which shape everything we do.

We are a specialist school with an outstanding residential provision, supporting pupils aged 3-19 with autism, communication and interaction needs, and associated learning needs. Through strong relationships, high aspirations and a nurturing approach, we create an environment where pupils feel safe, understood and able to succeed.

Set within beautiful woodland grounds near the seaside town of Dawlish, our school offers a unique learning environment where outdoor learning, creativity and individualised support are central to school life.

Orchard Manor School is looking to appoint a committed and organised HLTA (with Science Technician responsibilities) to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting pupils with special educational needs to access engaging, practical and meaningful Science learning.

The successful candidate will work closely with Science teachers and wider school staff to prepare resources, equipment and practical materials, maintain safe and well-organised learning environments, and support pupils to access planned Science activities. You will also work with individuals and small groups under the direction of teaching staff, helping pupils to build confidence, independence and practical Science skills.

As an HLTA (with Science Technician responsibilities), you will:

support the smooth day-to-day running of Science learning spaces by preparing and clearing away equipment, monitoring stock, supporting safe storage and following agreed health and safety procedures.

Help ensure that practical Science activities are well prepared, inclusive and accessible for pupils across the school.

This post will suit someone who is calm, flexible, well organised and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Experience of working with children in an education setting, particularly pupils with SEND, is essential. Experience or training linked to Science, practical learning, laboratory support or technical support in an education setting would be desirable.

We are looking for someone who:

Can support planned Science learning with individuals and small groups under teacher direction.

Is able to prepare, organise and maintain resources, equipment and practical materials safely and effectively.

Has good organisational, communication and IT skills.

Can support pupils calmly and consistently, including where learning, communication, regulation or behaviour needs require adaptation.

Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding, equality of opportunity and positive outcomes for pupils.

Is willing to undertake relevant Science, safety and SEND training.

A welcoming, supportive and values-led school community

Opportunities for professional development and career progression

A collaborative and highly skilled staff team

The chance to make a meaningful impact every day

A unique specialist setting with outdoor learning opportunities

Access to Trust-wide support, wellbeing initiatives and benefits

Part of the Special Partnership Trust - a specialist Trust committed to raising standards in SEND education

We warmly encourage informal visits so you can experience our school community and values in action.

If you would like to get a feel of our school do have a look at our social media pages too - we are on Facebook, Instagram and X . Our website is

Email: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Telephone: