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- Tasks: Inspire and support secondary students with special educational needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join Portfield School, a growing institution dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Lead a team of teaching assistants in a dynamic and collaborative setting.
- Why this job: Shape a new class and empower students to achieve their full potential.
- Qualifications: Qualified teacher status and experience with learners aged 14-19, especially those with autism.
Due to very exciting expansion plans for September 2026, we are thrilled to be recruiting for a full time Secondary Class Teacher to join us in the new academic year at our 6th form campus!
The role involves supporting students with special educational needs, particularly those with autism, in a nurturing and inclusive environment where every learner is understood and valued. You will plan and deliver a broad, engaging range of sessions throughout the week, helping students develop their academic learning alongside essential life and independence skills. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a brand-new class as part of Portfield School’s continued growth.
You will work closely with a skilled therapy team, creating a collaborative approach that weaves therapeutic support and enriching experiences into everyday learning. Together, you will help build students’ confidence, support their personal development, and empower them to achieve their full potential. Our secondary students are developing important preparation-for-adulthood skills, including pathways toward further education such as sixth form. An understanding of how to guide students towards nationally recognised qualifications would be highly valued. This role will be based at our dedicated Sixth Form site, located separately from the main Portfield campus while remaining within Christchurch.
In this role, you will also lead a team of dedicated teaching assistants, fostering a positive, supportive classroom environment where everyone can thrive. We are looking for applicants who have functional skills expertise, a background of working with learners aged 14 - 19, and preparation for adulthood experience along with a flexible attitude to supporting our students.
About You
For this secondary phase of learning, we are looking for someone who can demonstrate:
- Expertise in teaching and qualified teacher status
- Ability to plan and deliver effective lessons to inspire, engage and motivate pupils
- A positive attitude remaining calm even under pressure
- Experience of teaching students with Autism is desirable
- Clear and effective communication
- Ability to manage a team of teaching assistants effectively
- Willingness to support with all aspects of students' day including personal care
- A strong creative approach to teaching and learning
Closing date: 15th May 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 18th May 2026
Start Date: September 2026
Secondary School Teacher in Christchurch employer: Autism Unlimited
Contact Detail:
Autism Unlimited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Secondary School Teacher in Christchurch
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, join teaching forums, and connect with people in the field. 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 those interviews! Research the school’s ethos and values, especially around inclusivity and support for students with special educational needs. Tailor your answers to show how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! Bring examples of engaging lesson plans or activities you've used in the past that cater to diverse learning needs. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate students.
✨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 candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Secondary School Teacher in Christchurch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching shine through! We want to see how much you care about supporting students with special educational needs and how you can create an engaging learning environment.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially with students aged 14-19 and those with autism. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've helped students develop their skills and confidence in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your teaching philosophy and methods. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Portfield School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Unlimited
✨Know Your Students
Before the interview, take some time to research the specific needs of students with autism and special educational needs. Familiarise yourself with effective teaching strategies that cater to these learners, as this will show your commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Showcase Your Planning Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you would plan and deliver engaging lessons. Bring examples of lesson plans or activities that demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate students, especially those preparing for adulthood and further education.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Since you'll be leading a team of teaching assistants, share your experiences of working collaboratively in a classroom setting. Discuss how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past and how you plan to foster a positive atmosphere where everyone can thrive.
✨Stay Calm and Positive
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but maintaining a calm and positive attitude is key. Practice answering common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror to build your confidence and ensure you convey your passion for teaching and supporting students effectively.