Special Needs Cover Teacher

Special Needs Cover Teacher

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
New Directions

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Cover classes for students with special needs, creating engaging activities tailored to their abilities.
  • Company: A supportive SEND school dedicated to empowering children with Autism and additional needs.
  • Benefits: Flexible working hours, experience in a rewarding environment, and the chance to make a difference.
  • Other info: Work in a collaborative environment that values your comfort and expertise with different age groups.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team and help shape the future of young learners with unique challenges.
  • Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and experience with complex Autism in educational settings.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

New Directions are working closely with a SEND school in Shirley. This all-age (4 to 19 year) school specialises in educating children and young people with a lead diagnosis of Autism as well as other additional needs such as non-verbal communication, behaviour that challenges and sensory challenges. The school is looking for qualified teachers (with QTS) to work on a casual but regular basis, covering planned and unplanned teacher absence across the primary and secondary departments.

The school understands that teachers have their preferred and specialist age groups and therefore do not expect teachers to work with year groups they are not comfortable with. They require teachers to have experience of working with classes of children with complex Autism, including high staff to learner ratios; teamwork and staff management will be required.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Following the class teacher's planning (planned and unplanned absence)
  • Planning a day of activities in line with abilities and needs of the learners (unplanned absence)
  • Working as a team with the TAs in the classroom
  • Ensuring the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), EHCP outcomes, and personalised learning programmes
  • Support pupils to engage with learning activities using structured approaches (e.g. visual supports, clear routines)
  • Support staff to work to their full potential

Special Needs Cover Teacher employer: New Directions

New Directions is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for Special Needs Cover Teachers in Shirley. With a strong focus on professional development, the school encourages teachers to specialise in their preferred age groups, ensuring a fulfilling and tailored teaching experience. The collaborative culture, combined with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with complex needs, makes this role both rewarding and enriching.

New Directions

Contact Details:

New Directions Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Special Needs Cover Teacher

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.

Tip Number 2

Get familiar with the school’s ethos and values. When you land that interview, show them you understand their approach to teaching children with Autism and how you can contribute to their mission. It’ll make you stand out!

Tip Number 3

Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios in the classroom, especially those involving complex needs. This shows you’re ready to tackle the challenges head-on.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you prepare for interviews and connect with schools looking for passionate teachers like you. Let’s get you that job!

We think you need these skills to ace Special Needs Cover Teacher

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Understanding of Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
Knowledge of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)
Ability to plan activities for diverse learning needs
Teamwork and collaboration skills
Classroom management skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for SEND:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children with special educational needs shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Special Needs Cover Teacher role. Highlight your qualifications, experience with Autism, and any strategies you've used to support diverse learners.

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, ensuring that your skills and experiences are easy to understand. This will help us see how you can fit into our team.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get back to you quickly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community!

How to prepare for a job interview at New Directions

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re familiar with the specific needs of children with Autism and other additional needs. Brush up on strategies for non-verbal communication and behaviour management, as these will likely come up in your interview.

Showcase Your Experience

Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with complex Autism cases. Share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with learners and implemented IEPs or EHCP outcomes in your past roles.

Teamwork is Key

Since teamwork is crucial in this role, prepare to talk about how you’ve collaborated with TAs and other staff members in the classroom. Highlight any instances where you’ve led a team or supported colleagues to enhance student learning.

Plan for the Unexpected

Given that you may need to cover unplanned absences, think about how you would approach planning activities on the fly. Be ready to discuss your flexibility and creativity in adapting lessons to meet the diverse needs of learners.