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- Tasks: Deliver high-quality phonics and reading interventions to support students' transition to secondary education.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive discounts through our benefits scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives by shaping their educational journey.
- Qualifications: Passionate about early reading, phonics, and supporting vulnerable learners.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: MPS / UPS + TLR2B
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Job Roles: Head Of Department or Curriculum
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Sunday, 19th April 2026
About Us
Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) has a capacity of 1200 in the lower school and also has a developing sixth form provision. The sixth form has enjoyed strong progress in both academic and applied courses and has destinations data that shows NEETs significantly lower than the national picture. All Aldridge schools place enterprise and an entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of their ethos. In addition, DACA has a strong record of promoting cultural capital through its Technology and Creative Arts departments, where competition, visits and visitors are a regular part of student experience and support the development of cultural capital. DACA is very much a community school with a truly comprehensive intake. Sitting above the national average, 33% of its cohort are designated as being in the pupil premium category and DACA works hard to support all students to achieve strong engagement and strong outcomes. With a strong focus on our four key improvement levers around culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction, the DACA team are building towards a consistent provision that supports great progress for all students.
About The Role
Primary Teacher (Transition and Reading) - Transform Futures at Secondary Level!
Are you a passionate Primary Teacher who believes that every child deserves a strong start to their secondary education? We are seeking an exceptional Practitioner to join our team within a secondary school setting, with a clear and powerful mission - to ensure that our most vulnerable students arrive in Year 7 ready to thrive. This is a unique and rewarding role, perfectly suited to a primary specialist who understands the critical importance of curriculum readiness, phonics, and reading development and who wants to apply that expertise where it can have the greatest impact. You will work at the vital intersection between Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3, supporting students who require additional help to access the secondary curriculum.
Your Work Will Focus On:
- Delivering high-quality phonics and reading interventions for students with gaps in literacy.
- Building fluency, comprehension, and confidence to unlock learning across the curriculum.
- Supporting curriculum readiness, ensuring students are equipped with the foundational knowledge and habits needed for success in secondary school.
- Leading and shaping a robust transition programme for vulnerable learners, including those with SEND or who are disadvantaged.
- Working closely with subject Teachers, pastoral teams, and feeder primaries to ensure a joined-up, seamless transition experience.
Who We're Looking For:
- A skilled and committed Primary Practitioner, with strong knowledge of early reading and phonics (e.g. SSP approaches).
- Someone who understands how to diagnose gaps and deliver precise, impactful intervention.
- A professional who is passionate about inclusion and social mobility, particularly for vulnerable learners.
- A team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and is excited by the opportunity to shape provision across phases.
We welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented demographics.
Benefits
Join the Aldridge Education Family! Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme - Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
- Cycle to Work Scheme - Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme - Your wellbeing matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities - Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Site Parking - No more hunting for parking, we've got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave - Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
- Pension Schemes - Secure your future with access to the Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme - Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!
When you click apply you will be taken to our careers page where you can complete your application.
Primary Teacher (Reading and Transition) employer: Aldridge Education
Contact Detail:
Aldridge Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Primary Teacher (Reading and Transition)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its ethos. Understand their approach to education, especially around literacy and transition. This will help you tailor your answers and show you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching demonstrations! If you're asked to showcase your skills, make sure you have engaging lessons ready that highlight your expertise in phonics and reading interventions. Show them how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Aldridge Education family and making an impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Primary Teacher (Reading and Transition)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Primary Teacher (Reading and Transition). We want to see your passion for supporting vulnerable learners and your understanding of phonics and reading development.
Showcase Your Impact: Use specific examples in your application to demonstrate how you've made a difference in previous roles. Whether it's improving literacy rates or leading successful transition programmes, we love to see tangible results that reflect your commitment to education.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your written application! We’re looking for someone who is not just qualified but also genuinely passionate about making a difference in students' lives. Share your teaching philosophy and what drives you as an educator.
Follow the Application Process: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen on joining the Aldridge Education family. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aldridge Education
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the curriculum and phonics strategies relevant to Key Stage 2 and 3. Familiarise yourself with the specific reading interventions that can help bridge gaps for vulnerable learners, as this will show your commitment to their success.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Inclusion
Be prepared to discuss your experiences and strategies for supporting students with SEND or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Highlight any previous work you've done that demonstrates your dedication to social mobility and inclusion.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
Emphasise your ability to work closely with other teachers and pastoral teams. Share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past to create a seamless transition experience for students, as teamwork is key in this role.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview about the school's approach to transition programmes and how they support vulnerable learners. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school aligns with your values.