At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a small team to deliver tailored education for KS2 and KS3 pupils with SEMH needs.
- Company: Join a brand new Alternative Provision in Southampton dedicated to nurturing vulnerable learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, SEN allowance, and the chance to shape a unique educational environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for leadership in a supportive, child-centred setting with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives by providing personalised support and education.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and at least two years of teaching experience, especially with SEN.
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.
About the Role
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 Southampton employer: Academics
Join a pioneering new Alternative Provision in Southampton as a Lead SEMH Teacher, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape a nurturing and child-centred environment from the ground up. Our commitment to personalised learning and emotional support ensures that you will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. With a focus on professional development and a supportive work culture, this role offers an enriching career path for passionate educators looking to lead in a specialist setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead SEMH Teacher in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local 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
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and successes in supporting SEMH pupils. Let them see your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the new Alternative Provision. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their mission. Tailor your responses to highlight how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for roles that match your expertise. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our community of passionate educators.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead SEMH Teacher in Southampton
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 why this role excites you and how you can contribute to a nurturing environment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead SEMH Teacher position. Highlight relevant experience, especially your work with SEN pupils and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our vision for the new Alternative Provision.
Be Specific About Your Skills:In your application, be specific about your skills in behaviour management and relationship-building. Use examples to demonstrate how you've successfully supported vulnerable learners in the past. This will help us understand your approach and effectiveness.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of SEMH education and trauma-informed practices. Brush up on your knowledge about individual learning pathways and how to cater to diverse needs, as this will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles and how they’ve shaped your approach to teaching. Be ready with examples of how you've successfully managed behaviour and built relationships with pupils, families, and colleagues. This is your chance to shine!
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead SEMH Teacher, you’ll need to show that you can lead and inspire others. Think of instances where you’ve taken charge, whether it’s in curriculum delivery or supporting colleagues. Highlight your ability to collaborate and contribute to a positive team environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the new provision, its goals, and how you can contribute to its success. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
