At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and support primary students with special needs, focusing on autism and communication techniques.
- Company: Join a specialist school dedicated to providing holistic education for children with complex learning needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent facilities, on-site training, and the potential for a permanent position.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive and creative environment.
- Qualifications: QTS required, but experienced unqualified teachers are also welcome to apply.
- Other info: Classes are small, with extensive support from teaching assistants and therapists.
The predicted salary is between 36400 - 62400 £ per year.
The school provides a safe learning environment for primary aged children with severe and complex learning, social and communication difficulties, which may include physical disability. The school also provides therapies such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, music, speech and language therapies where these are part of a young person's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The team works closely with therapists to ensure the physical and emotional support of the children. The school has excellent facilities and on-site equipment including a therapy pool, sensory rooms and uses I-Gaze technology, and there is excellent on-site training and support, helping with progression to become senior support assistants, teachers, therapy assistants etc.
Summary:
- Specialist primary school for students with a range of complex learning needs such as autism, down's syndrome, speech and language challenges and social, emotional needs.
- Focus on providing holistic, cross-curricular themes that ensure the sensory needs of the students are being met. The children in this particular class all have a diagnosis of Autism and associated needs.
- Classes range from 6-8 in size with a focus on implementing effective sensory and communication techniques.
- Therapy rooms and designated areas for specialist support from a range of therapists including SALTs, Occupational therapists, psychologists and counsellors.
- An Integrated Trauma Informed Approach and extensive 1-1 support for every pupil.
- Specialist communication methods such as Makaton and PECS.
- The school likes to focus on sensory teaching and a creative curriculum. You will have a senior teaching assistant and 2-3 additional LSAs in your class to support you.
- QTS is needed for the role, but the school would consider unqualified teachers if you have experience to bring to the role.
- April 2025 start: £140 to £240 per day.
Apply directly through this advert or call Judith Oakley on (phone number removed).
Teacher of Special Needs employer: Academics Ltd
Contact Detail:
Academics Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teacher of Special Needs
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with autism and other complex learning difficulties. Understanding the unique challenges they face will help you demonstrate your passion and suitability for the role during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the special needs education sector. Attend local workshops or seminars related to autism and special educational needs, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase any relevant experience you have with sensory teaching methods or communication techniques like Makaton and PECS. Being able to discuss practical applications of these methods can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school’s ethos and approach to education, particularly their focus on holistic and sensory teaching. Tailoring your conversation to align with their values can demonstrate your commitment and fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Teacher of Special Needs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Teacher of Special Needs. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with autism and other complex learning difficulties.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in special education, particularly with autism and sensory teaching methods. Include any qualifications, such as QTS, and mention any specific training or techniques you are familiar with, like Makaton or PECS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for working with children with special needs. Share specific examples of how you've successfully supported students in the past and how you plan to contribute to the school's holistic approach.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics Ltd
✨Understand the School's Approach
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and teaching methods, especially their focus on sensory teaching and holistic education. Be prepared to discuss how your teaching style aligns with their approach to supporting children with autism and complex needs.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any previous experience you have working with special needs students, particularly those with autism. Share specific examples of successful strategies you've implemented in the classroom that catered to diverse learning needs.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to discuss your familiarity with specialist communication methods like Makaton and PECS. You might even want to prepare a brief demonstration or explanation of how you would use these techniques in your teaching.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's support systems, training opportunities, and how they integrate therapies into the curriculum. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.