Level Teaching Assistant - Studio

Job Title

Higher Level Teaching Assistant - Studio 5

Walsall

Walsall Studio School & Sixth is a deliberately small, forward‑thinking school for young people aged 14‑19 who are passionate about creative pathways in performance, music, and media.

We offer a unique learning environment that mirrors a modern creative workplace, with flexible studio spaces and industry‑standard facilities.

Traditional schools don’t work for everyone, that’s why we built something different. Where others teach theory, we give you networks and experience, so that you are ahead of the game professionally.

With just 60 places in Year 10 and 11 and 90 in Sixth Form, every student is known, supported and challenged to succeed. Our aim is simple: to provide a curriculum that gets you hired.

• Deliver targeted small group and 1:1 interventions across a range of subject areas and social/emotional needs, in line with student EHCPs.
• Support students in accessing learning in mainstream lessons, promoting independence, confidence, and engagement.
• Adapt resources and approaches to meet the specific learning profiles of Studio 5 students.
• Use assessment for learning techniques to track and respond to student progress.
• Work closely with teaching staff to implement support strategies and differentiate appropriately.
• To cover and deliver sessions in the absence of teaching staff.

• Line‑manage a team of Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Therapeutic Workers within Studio 5, overseeing their day‑to‑day deployment, support, and development.
• Facilitate regular Team meetings, support staff briefings, and contribute to SEND planning and reviews.
• Lead by example in upholding the school’s ethos, expectations, and trauma‑informed practices.
• Provide coaching, modelling and in‑role support for the team to ensure consistently high‑quality practice.
• Work with the Assistant Headteacher to evaluate provision and contribute to strategic development planning.

• Act as a key adult and trusted figure for a small caseload of Studio 5 students.
• Implement trauma‑informed and attachment‑aware approaches to behaviour, communication, and regulation.
• Support students in managing their emotions, transitions, and relationships in school.
• Liaise with parents/carers and external professionals to ensure a coordinated support plan is in place.
• Contribute to risk assessments, pastoral plans, and the safe management of crisis situations.

• Champion inclusive practice and student voice within the SRP and wider school community.
• Ensure that safeguarding, confidentiality, and data protection policies are upheld at all times.
• Maintain accurate records and support statutory processes (EHCPs, annual reviews, etc.).
• Promote student attendance, punctuality, and readiness to learn.

• Engage in regular CPD linked to SEMH, autism, anxiety, neurodiversity, and inclusive education.
• Contribute to the development of others through mentoring, training, or sharing of best practice.
• Maintain HLTA status and undertake any additional qualifications or training as agreed.

£25,135 – £28,826

HLTA status or equivalent qualification/experience.

GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above).

Evidence of ongoing CPD in SEND/SEMH/communication needs.

Further qualification in SEND, SEMH or Trauma Informed Practice desirable.

• Discounts on everyday purchases (Eden Red).
• A comprehensive free‑of‑charge health plan (UK Health Care).
• A cycle‑to‑work scheme via Halfords.
• Access to the Blue Light Card.

The Mercian Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults, and all appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references.

The Mercian Trust is also committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.