Literacy Lead in Stowmarket

At OFG we allow for greater work life balance and extra time to do the things you love outside work.

Location: Wetheringsett Manor, Suffolk, IP14 5QX

Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8.15am - 4.00pm

Salary: Up to £40,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)

Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only

Start: September 2026

UK applicants only – no sponsorship available.

About the Role

This is a key teaching and leadership position, responsible for delivering high-quality literacy teaching—primarily across Key Stages 2 and 3—while shaping the school’s phonics and literacy strategy across all key stages. You will play a central role in ensuring every pupil, including those with complex needs and SEMH, can access learning, make progress and achieve their potential. You will work closely with the Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, SENCO, therapy team and wider staff to create a cohesive, ambitious and inclusive literacy curriculum that supports the diverse needs of our learners.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver high-quality literacy teaching across KS2 and KS3 (with input into KS4), including phonics leadership, life-skills teaching where required, and implementation of the whole-school reading policy.
• Lead the school’s phonics and literacy strategy across all key stages, working closely with English and KS2 teachers to ensure consistent progression and strong outcomes for all pupils.
• Support and develop SEN provision, working with the SENCO, therapy team, families and external agencies to ensure effective inclusion and personalised learning for pupils with complex needs and SEMH.
• Contribute to EHCP processes, including reviews, target setting and ensuring Individual Education Plans inform high-quality, needs-led teaching.
• Plan, assess and monitor pupil progress, using data to set challenging targets, identify underachievement and implement effective interventions.
• Ensure strong curriculum planning and delivery, including continuity, progression, appropriate teaching methods, effective classroom organisation and a stimulating learning environment.
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers and the wider community, communicating clearly about progress, curriculum and support, and developing external links that enhance learning.
• Engage in professional development and contribute to whole-school improvement, including resource management, collaboration with colleagues, and achieving personal professional goals.

Who We’re Looking For

• QTS or equivalent qualification required.
• Strong knowledge of literacy teaching, phonics and curriculum development.
• A deep understanding of SEN, including the Code of Practice and inclusive teaching strategies.
• The ability to inspire, motivate and support pupils with a wide range of needs.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, solution-focused approach.
• A commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and the highest standards of teaching.
• Driving licence is required.

About Us

Set in the picturesque village of Wetheringsett, in Suffolk, our site has recently benefited from significant development. Our traditional manor house has expanded to include a modern classroom block with everything teachers and students could need. We believe in delivering an exceptional education and to do this we’ve invested in creating an environment which inspires learning, which coupled with our professional teaching team, gives our students a first class start in life. Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact. We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.

Why Join Us?

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

Benefits

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• Your Wellbeing Matters – mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including: Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
• Hundreds of UK and international discounts
• Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.