At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to develop and enhance our unique curriculum for SEN students.
- Company: Birtenshaw School, a supportive environment transforming lives of children with special needs.
- Benefits: Purpose-built facilities, competitive salary, training opportunities, and employee recognition schemes.
- Other info: Join a dynamic leadership team dedicated to innovative teaching and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years teaching experience and a commitment to SEN education.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Birtenshaw is looking to appoint an experienced SEN Teacher, with at least 2 years teaching experience, to work within our school in Fazakerley.
Birtenshaw School Merseyside is an independent special school offering education for children aged 3-19 who have an EHCP (Education Health Care Plan), for pupils with significant physical impairment, complex health needs, learning disability and/or Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Our dynamic and passionate staff are committed to the Birtenshaw vision of ‘Transforming Lives’. We ensure that pupils receive the same learning and social opportunities as other pupils; which we achieve by providing facilities which are second to none and a creative curriculum tailored to meet their needs. With dedicated staff, a unique approach and purpose built facilities, we provide a supportive, safe and happy environment where all young people receive the support they need. The physical environment is of vital consideration when setting the climate for learning. The building is airy and spacious and provides a calm and safe environment in which pupils can thrive. Adopting a “Total Communication” approach means that we view all behaviour as communication, assessing the function of the behaviour and supporting pupils to communicate more effectively, leading to lower anxiety and improved relationships.
Responsibilities:
- To operate as part of the Senior Leadership Team at Birtenshaw School, Merseyside.
- To have an active and forward-thinking role in the development of the school’s curriculum.
- To manage teaching staff and ensure that all teaching standards are met.
- To be an active part in the development of the school, as a whole.
- To ensure that all legislation and Ofsted requirements are followed and met.
What we offer:
- Purpose built facilities including: a sensory soft play room, multi-sensory room with immersive technology, sensory integration room, rebound therapy room and a 25 metre hydrotherapy pool with multi-sensory sound and light system.
- Group Income Protection Scheme, providing a guaranteed income for employees who are unable to work as a result of illness or injury.
- Employee Assistance Programme, a 24 hour helpline to support you through any of life’s issues or problems.
- Opportunities for staff who want to climb the career ladder.
- Pension Scheme.
- Training Opportunities with an extensive range of training available delivered by experienced practitioners.
- Staff recognition schemes such as employee of the month and long service awards.
- Gives a voice to staff members to suggest and implement change.
Closing Date: 12/03/2026 at 12 noon
Interviews: 16/03/2026
All employees are required to commit to implementing Birtenshaw Group policies and procedures to ensure the health, safety and general welfare of children and adults. The Birtenshaw Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all service users and expects all employees to share and uphold this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, meaning that any potential employee is still required to disclose what would normally be considered a “spent” conviction. An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required. Information provided by you or the DBS will be dealt with in confidence and in accordance with the DBS Code of Practice which can be viewed via the DBS website. All offers of employment are made subject to safeguarding/pre-employment checks including satisfactory references, pre-employment medical, proof of right to work in the UK in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996 and other pre-employment checks where applicable.
Head of Department (SEN Teacher) in Liverpool employer: Birtenshaw
Birtenshaw School Merseyside is an exceptional employer, dedicated to transforming the lives of children with special educational needs. Our supportive and innovative work culture fosters professional growth through extensive training opportunities and a clear career progression path. With purpose-built facilities and a commitment to employee well-being, including a Group Income Protection Scheme and Employee Assistance Programme, we ensure that our staff are equipped and supported to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our pupils.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department (SEN Teacher) in Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know about openings before they're even advertised, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Birtenshaw's approach and values. Show us how your experience aligns with our vision of 'Transforming Lives' and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to our unique curriculum.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your passion for teaching and how you handle challenges in a supportive environment. Be yourself!
✨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 us you're genuinely interested in being part of the Birtenshaw team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department (SEN Teacher) in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with SEN students shine through. We want to see how committed you are to transforming lives and making a difference in the classroom.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant teaching experience, especially any work with children who have EHCPs or complex needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Birtenshaw.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm without wading through unnecessary fluff.
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 Birtenshaw.
How to prepare for a job interview at Birtenshaw
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs and the specific challenges faced by students with EHCPs. Familiarise yourself with Birtenshaw's approach to 'Total Communication' and be ready to discuss how you would implement this in your teaching.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Department, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or developed curriculum initiatives in the past. Highlight your experience in ensuring teaching standards are met and how you can contribute to the school's overall development.
✨Engage with the School's Vision
Birtenshaw is all about 'Transforming Lives', so make sure you connect your personal teaching philosophy with their vision. Think about how you can contribute to creating a supportive and happy environment for pupils and staff alike, and be ready to share your ideas during the interview.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the school’s culture, the support available for staff, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if Birtenshaw is the right fit for you.