At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a small team to deliver tailored education for pupils with SEMH needs.
- Company: New Alternative Provision in Southampton focused on nurturing and child-centred learning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, SEN allowance, and the chance to shape a new educational environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives by providing personalised support and education.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status, 2+ years teaching experience, and a passion for supporting vulnerable learners.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Academics are seeking an exceptional and passionate Lead SEMH Teacher to join a brand new Alternative Provision opening in Southampton in September 2026. This is a unique opportunity for a successful SEMH Teacher to help shape a nurturing, child-centred setting from the ground up. The new provision will support KS2 and KS3 pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH) and other complex needs such as autism. The new Alternative Provision will have a maximum of 12 pupils on site at any one time. The provision is small so you are able to cater to their individual learning needs. Building relationships, providing consistency and being able to offer tailored learning is at the heart of everything they will do.
As the Lead SEMH Teacher, you will play a pivotal role in establishing and delivering high quality education and emotional support to all pupils. You will lead on curriculum delivery, support the development of individual learning pathways, and work closely with colleagues, families and external professionals to ensure every child can thrive. This lead role is suited to an experienced SEMH Teacher who is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and who is looking for a leadership opportunity within a specialist setting.
The successful Lead SEMH Teacher will be someone who:
- Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Has a minimum of two years' teaching experience
- Has experience working with pupils with SEN, particularly SEMH needs
- Demonstrates excellent behaviour management and relationship-building skills
- Has a strong understanding of trauma-informed and inclusive educational practices
- Is committed to delivering personalised learning and improving outcomes for vulnerable learners
- Has experience supporting or contributing to SEND provision within a school setting
- Has previous SENCO experience or involvement in SENCO responsibilities (desirable)
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead teaching and learning across the provision
- Deliver engaging and differentiated lessons for KS2 and KS3 pupils
- Develop and monitor individual learning plans and educational targets
- Support pupils' social, emotional and behavioural development
- Work collaboratively with families, local authorities and external agencies
- Contribute to the development of policies, procedures and curriculum planning
- Assist with SEND coordination and provision planning where appropriate
This is a full-time, permanent position starting in September 2026 paying MP3 - MP6 + an SEN allowance. If you are an enthusiastic and dedicated SEMH Teacher/SEMH Lead Teacher who is passionate about supporting children with SEN and SEMH needs, please apply!
Lead SEMH Teacher in Portsmouth employer: Academics
Join a pioneering team at our new Alternative Provision in Southampton, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape a nurturing and child-centred environment for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work culture that values collaboration, professional development, and the well-being of both staff and students, ensuring that you can thrive in your role as a Lead SEMH Teacher while making a meaningful impact on young lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead SEMH Teacher in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local teaching events, and connect with professionals in the SEMH field. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to interview, share your experiences and successes in supporting SEMH pupils. Let your enthusiasm for creating a nurturing environment shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! Research the new Alternative Provision and understand their values and goals. This way, you can align your teaching philosophy with theirs during interviews, making you a standout candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to make a difference in the lives of SEMH pupils.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead SEMH Teacher in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with SEMH needs shine through. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to nurturing a child-centred environment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your teaching experience, particularly with SEN and SEMH, and any leadership roles you've held to show you're the right fit for this lead position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell a story about why you want to be a Lead SEMH Teacher. Discuss your approach to building relationships and delivering personalised learning, and how you plan to contribute to the new provision's success.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of social, emotional, and mental health needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support pupils with SEMH challenges. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead SEMH Teacher, you'll be expected to lead and inspire others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or project in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and foster a positive learning environment, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tailored Learning Plans Are Key
Be prepared to talk about how you develop and monitor individual learning plans. Share specific examples of how you've personalised learning for students with SEN, particularly those with SEMH needs. This will demonstrate your commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable learners.
✨Collaboration is Essential
Discuss your experience working with families, local authorities, and external agencies. Highlight any successful collaborations that led to positive outcomes for students. This shows you understand the importance of a holistic approach in supporting children with additional needs.
