At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to support students with autism and other SEND needs.
- Company: Bridgwater College Academy, dedicated to nurturing and inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, wellbeing support, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working options available in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience with SEND students required.
The predicted salary is between 33500 - 43500 £ per year.
Bridgwater College Academy is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and compassionate LEAD SEND Teacher to join our specialist ASC Polden Centre, working with students who have autism and other needs such as ADHD. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a highly skilled team who are dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing and aspirational learning environment for all students.
About the Role
- Support the Head of Centre, SEND teaching team and support staff team (LSAs) to provide teaching and learning as well as personal development and wellbeing in line with students' EHCP needs.
- Support the centre staff team with professional development, so that they are equipped to support the students in the best possible way.
- Deputise in absence of the Head of Centre.
- Complement the work of teachers by planning, delivering and evaluating structured learning activities for individual pupils, small groups, and whole classes.
- Support the academic, social and emotional development of students with autism through high-quality interventions and targeted in-class support.
- Contribute to assessment, monitoring and reporting of pupil progress.
- Promote independence, positive behaviour, engagement and inclusion.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, wider school colleagues, and external agencies and families.
- Play an active role in creating a safe, purposeful and nurturing learning environment within the Polden Centre.
- Promote Inclusion within the centre and across the wider school community.
This role is varied, rewarding and impactful - ideal for someone passionate about making a difference for young people with SEND and with an interest in developing their own leadership skills.
About You
- Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- Has experience teaching students with SEND (either in specialist or mainstream settings).
- Understands how to adapt lessons, manage behaviour positively and meet a range of learning needs.
- Is reflective, enthusiastic and committed to professional development.
- Builds strong relationships with students, staff and families.
What We Offer
- Employee Reward Scheme including high street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre.
- A supportive, skilled and welcoming SEND team.
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in a well-resourced specialist provision.
Closing Date for applications: Wednesday 29th April 2026. Anticipated interviews: W/C 4th May 2026. To discuss the role further with Head of Centre, please contact recruitment@btc-trust.org.
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don't feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply.
We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 23%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under-represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Lead SEND Teacher in Bridgwater employer: Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
Bridgwater College Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth and well-being of its staff. With a strong commitment to inclusive education, we offer extensive development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and a range of benefits including flexible working arrangements, generous pension contributions, and access to wellness resources. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying a fulfilling career in a nurturing environment.
Contact Details:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead SEND Teacher in Bridgwater
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to SEND. Show them you’re not just passionate but also informed about their specific needs and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to teaching strategies for students with autism and other SEND. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen and gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead SEND Teacher in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with SEND students shine through. Share specific experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and qualities mentioned in the job description. Use examples from your past that align with what we’re looking for in a Lead SEND Teacher.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your qualifications and experiences are easy to understand.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), especially autism and ADHD. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the classroom to support these students, as well as how you adapt lessons to meet individual needs.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, highlight your passion for working with vulnerable learners. Share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with students and how you've promoted their wellbeing and personal development. This role is all about making a difference, so let that shine through!
✨Team Player Vibes
Bridgwater College Academy values collaboration, so be prepared to talk about your experience working with other teachers, support staff, and external agencies. Discuss how you've contributed to a positive team environment and how you can support the professional development of your colleagues.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of engaging with parents and the wider school community. Share any experiences where you've effectively communicated with families or worked on initiatives that promote inclusion and support for SEND students.
