At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with visual impairments through specialist teaching and collaboration.
- Company: Join Plymouth City Council's passionate Advisory Team for Sensory Support.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Experience a supportive team environment with opportunities for growth and impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of visually impaired learners in a vibrant coastal city.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified teacher with QTVI qualification or working towards it.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 44962 £ per year.
Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.
Qualified Teacher for Visual Impairment (QTVI) Plymouth Advisory Team for Sensory Support (PATSS)
Salary: MPS–UPS + SEN allowance
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Start date: Autumn 2026
Make a real difference in a city that inspires. Where else could you develop cutting‑edge specialist teaching practice in a vibrant coastal city, perfectly placed between the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park and the stunning South West coastline? As this role is within Teachers’ Pay and Conditions, you’ll have the time to enjoy everything Plymouth has to offer.
About The Role
Plymouth City Council is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Qualified Teacher for Visual Impairment (QTVI) to join our Plymouth Advisory Team for Sensory Support (PATSS). You will play a vital role in supporting children and young people with visual impairments from birth to 25, working across a variety of settings including homes, nurseries, schools and colleges. This is a highly rewarding, varied role where no two days are the same.
You Will:
- Provide specialist teaching, assessment and intervention for children and young people with visual impairments
- Support development of independence, access to learning and life skills
- Work closely with families, schools, early years settings and multi‑agency professionals
- Deliver training, advice and modelling of best practice to education staff
- Contribute to outcomes, EHCP processes and strategic SEND support
- Manage a diverse caseload across the city
- Use specialist approaches, including assistive technology and adapted teaching methods
About The Team
PATSS is a highly skilled, supportive and collaborative service made up of specialist teachers (QTVIs and Qualified Teachers of Deaf Children), Habilitation Specialists and a Deaf Access and Inclusion Worker.
We Are Passionate About:
- Inclusion and equity in education
- Working in partnership with families
- Enabling children and young people to thrive and achieve their aspirations
You’ll be joining a team that values collaboration, professional curiosity and continuous improvement.
About You:
- Is a qualified teacher with the QTVI qualification (or working towards it)
- Has experience supporting children and young people with SEND, particularly visual impairment
- Is passionate about inclusive education and improving outcomes for every learner
- Can build strong relationships with families, professionals and education settings
- Is confident advising, supporting and constructively challenging schools
- Is organised, proactive and able to manage a varied caseload
- Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills
This role is ideal for someone who wants to be a champion for independence, access and opportunity for visually impaired learners.
What we offer:
- A friendly, experienced and welcoming team
- Structured induction, supervision and mentoring
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- Opportunities to develop specialist expertise and influence practice across the city
- A strong commitment to staff wellbeing, including Employee Assistance Programme access
- Flexible working arrangements where possible
- A rewarding role where you can see the direct impact of your work
Why Plymouth?
Plymouth is a unique place to live and work — a forward‑looking city with a strong sense of community, surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty. From coastal walks and water sports to moorland adventures, you’ll have the perfect balance between a meaningful career and an exceptional quality of life.
The Disclosure & Barring Service Check requirement for this post is: Enhanced Check + DBS Children’s Barred List. Applications from candidates working towards QTVI qualification are welcome.
If you are passionate about making education accessible, empowering children and young people, and developing your specialist practice in a supportive and inspiring environment, we would love to hear from you.
For An Informal Discussion, Please Contact Louise Woodhead – Sensory Support Team Leader (QTVI) – via e-mail louise.woodhead@plymouth.gov.uk
Closing date: Sunday 05 July 2026
Preferred interview date: Tuesday 7th July 2026
Plymouth City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, care experience, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex or sexual orientation. As part of our commitment to promoting equality we offer guaranteed interviews to those who meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, care experienced or are an Armed Forces Service Leaver within the last two years.
Qualified Advisory Teacher - Visual Impairment in Plymouth employer: PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
Plymouth City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative environment for Qualified Teachers for Visual Impairment. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on staff wellbeing, you will thrive in a role that makes a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with visual impairments. Located in the vibrant coastal city of Plymouth, you will enjoy a unique work-life balance amidst stunning natural beauty and a strong sense of community.
