At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex learning needs through engaging, personalised teaching.
- Company: Join Oaklands School, a therapeutic and inclusive environment for diverse learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full training, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in early years or primary special education is a plus, but passion is key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Welcome to Oaklands School. At Oaklands School (OS), we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. We are a therapeutic, inclusive school supporting children aged 5–16 with complex learning needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), and a wide range of associated difficulties.
We are looking for a dedicated SEN Teacher with experience in early years or primary special education to support learners at early developmental stages and those beginning to access subject-specific learning. You will guide pupils in building communication, emotional regulation, and early functional skills using a highly personalised approach aligned with their EHCP outcomes.
Pupil Profile and Experience Required
This role may involve teaching pupils who are minimally verbal or non-speaking, with complex Autism (ASC) and significant Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). Pupils are often working at early developmental levels and require consistent, structured, and highly supported environments to engage in learning. Previous experience working with pupils with this profile is desirable but not essential. However, a strong willingness to learn, develop, and engage with specialist approaches is essential. Full training and support will be provided, including in total communication approaches (e.g. AAC, PECS, Makaton), communication development, and emotional regulation strategies.
Job Purpose
To provide high-quality, individualised teaching to pupils with complex SEND, supporting progress across communication, emotional regulation, cognitive development and independence, in line with OS’ therapeutic and curriculum frameworks.
Our Curriculum Approach
At OS, teaching is highly individualised and structured around developmental stages rather than age or year group. Pupils progress through phases of learning that focus on sensory engagement, early functional skills, academic confidence, and preparation for adulthood. This is supported through a personalised curriculum, adapted from a range of sources and designed to meet EHCP outcomes. The curriculum includes core subjects (English, Maths, Science, PSHE/RSE) and a broad enrichment offer. It is delivered through:
- Integrated therapeutic practice (SaLT, OT, Play Therapy)
- Key frameworks such as Zones of Regulation and Attention Autism
- Total communication environments (AAC, PECS, visuals)
- Adaptive planning and progress tracking using B-Squared assessment frameworks and other recognised tools
Key Responsibilities
Planning, Teaching and Class Management
- Deliver engaging, multi-sensory and therapeutic lessons using OS’ bespoke curriculum framework
- Create communication-rich classrooms using AAC, PECS, Makaton, and other visual supports
- Embed structured teaching strategies including TEACCH, Attention Autism, and sensory integration
- Collaborate with support staff to deliver consistent routines and high-quality interventions
- Use real-life contexts and adaptive approaches to develop early literacy, numeracy, and topic-based learning
- Encourage pupils to take a responsible and active role in their own learning and development
Assessment, Recording and Reporting
- Track and record pupil progress using B-Squared and other external or school-approved assessment tools aligned to EHCP outcomes
- Provide evidence of learning through observations, photos, work samples, and narrative reports
- Contribute to Annual Reviews, parent updates, and multi-agency planning
- Regularly adapt teaching and targets based on assessment and therapeutic input
- Support moderation activities and contribute to collaborative curriculum planning
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Follow OS’ safeguarding policies and procedures at all times
- Promote emotional safety through consistent routines, regulation strategies, and trauma-informed practice
- Take responsibility for promoting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, including British Values
- Monitor attendance, engagement, and wellbeing, and liaise with relevant staff where concerns arise
Professional Responsibilities
- Demonstrate a secure understanding of each pupil’s EHCP and ensure planning, delivery, and assessment reflect identified outcomes
- Maintain awareness of the SEND Code of Practice and implement its principles
- Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to embed therapy targets and promote joined-up provision
- Liaise with therapists and external professionals to support holistic progress
- Engage in reflective practice and CPD, including therapeutic and curriculum-specific training
- Participate in observations, coaching, peer support, and development planning
- Promote The Oaklands Way in all aspects of teaching and teamwork
- Uphold professional conduct and model school values at all times
This job description may be amended at any time following discussion with the postholder and will be reviewed annually.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Oaklands School, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.
SEN Teacher KS1 KS2 in Hungerford employer: Oaklands School
Contact Detail:
Oaklands School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teacher KS1 KS2 in Hungerford
✨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. Plus, a personal recommendation can really give you an edge!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Oaklands School and its approach to teaching. Familiarise yourself with their curriculum and therapeutic practices. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission of supporting children with complex needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to SEN teaching strategies. Use examples from your experience to demonstrate how you can support pupils with diverse learning needs. 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. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining the Oaklands team. Good luck, we believe in you!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teacher KS1 KS2 in Hungerford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the SEN Teacher role. We want to see how your background fits with our therapeutic and inclusive approach at Oaklands School.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children with complex learning needs shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in our pupils' lives!
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your previous roles, focus on specific experiences that relate to teaching pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition or Speech, Language and Communication Needs. This helps us understand how you can contribute to our unique environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at Oaklands School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oaklands School
✨Know Your Pupils
Before the interview, take some time to research the specific needs of pupils with complex learning difficulties. Familiarise yourself with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). This will show your commitment to understanding the unique challenges these children face.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Strategies
Be prepared to discuss your teaching methods, especially those that align with the therapeutic and multi-sensory approaches mentioned in the job description. Highlight any experience you have with AAC, PECS, or Makaton, and be ready to share examples of how you've created communication-rich environments in your previous roles.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Collaboration is key in a role like this. Talk about your experience working with support staff, therapists, and other professionals. Share specific examples of how you've worked as part of a multi-disciplinary team to achieve positive outcomes for pupils.
✨Reflect on Your Professional Development
Demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow by discussing any relevant training or professional development you've undertaken. Mention your interest in ongoing CPD and how you plan to engage with the school's training opportunities to enhance your skills in supporting pupils with SEND.