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- Tasks: As an SEN Teacher, you'll creatively teach and support pupils with diverse needs.
- Company: Join Options Autism, a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-Day Working Week trial, life assurance, and flexible benefits tailored to you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive, award-winning environment.
- Qualifications: QTSS required; suitable for ECT/NQT applicants.
- Other info: Start date is January 2026; this role does not offer sponsorship.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 48000 £ per year.
Work Smarter. Live Better. Join the 4-Day Working Week!
Position: SEN Teacher
Location: Strawberry Lane School, Durham, DH6 5BE
Salary: Up to £42,500 per annum (dependant on experience, not pro rata)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: May 2026
This position is not open to Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay*.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW, and others will soon join in. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG!
About the Role
Are you a passionate and creative teacher looking to make a real difference in the lives of young people? At our New Options Autism Schools located in Durham, you will have the opportunity to shape the educational experience from day one. You will join a supportive, collaborative team, delivering meaningful learning experiences that inspire, engage, and challenge pupils to achieve their potential.
As an SEN Teacher, you will take a creative and tailored approach to teaching, delivering the school curriculum in a way that maximises pupils’ achievement, development, and wellbeing. You will teach a range of subjects as needed, support pupils with complex ASC, and foster an inclusive, nurturing classroom environment. This role also involves collaborating with colleagues, contributing to school initiatives, and participating in planning, assessment, and professional development to ensure all pupils receive a high-quality education.
General Responsibilities
- Safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils.
- Work in line with professional practice, statutory requirements, and school policies.
- Support the day-to-day administration and organisation of the school.
- Take responsibility for specific areas of work and contribute to school improvement processes.
- Undertake additional responsibilities as reasonably determined by the Headteacher.
Qualifications
- Experience working with complex ASC
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Educated to degree level
- Passionate about supporting pupils with Autism and complex needs
About Us
Strawberry Lane School is a brand-new specialist school in Bowburn, Durham, supporting 60 pupils aged 11–19 with autism, communication needs, and additional complex needs. In a nurturing and inclusive environment, pupils receive personalised support to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. The school celebrates each learner’s strengths while providing structure, guidance, and encouragement. Strawberry Lane empowers every young person to thrive and reach their full potential.
For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
- Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
*Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
#1
SEN Teacher employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with Autism and other complex needs. Understanding the unique challenges they face will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to improving their lives.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former SEN teachers, especially those who have worked in similar settings. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the school environment, which can be beneficial during your discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning needs. Highlighting your creativity and adaptability in lesson planning will show that you are well-suited for the dynamic environment at Strawberry Lane School.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to Ellie Sharples for an informal chat about the role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you a chance to ask questions that can help you tailor your approach when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience and qualifications relevant to the SEN Teacher role. Emphasise any specific training or certifications related to special educational needs, as well as your teaching philosophy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with pupils with autism and complex needs. Include specific examples of how you've positively impacted students' lives in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, detail your experience in teaching diverse groups of students, particularly those with special educational needs. Mention any innovative teaching methods you’ve used to engage and support these learners.
Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. Mention any relevant policies or practices you have implemented in past roles to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Show Your Passion for SEN Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with pupils with special educational needs. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to improving their lives and how you can contribute to their development.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Curriculum
Before the interview, take some time to understand the primary and secondary curriculums relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you would adapt your teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students, particularly those with autism.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully supported a pupil or resolved a conflict in the classroom.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Collaboration is key in an SEN environment. Be ready to discuss how you have worked effectively with colleagues, parents, and other professionals to support students' learning and well-being. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute positively to the school community.
