At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and educate children with SEMH needs through tailored lesson plans.
- Company: Join Luminous Oak Academy, a brand-new school dedicated to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, SEN allowance, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Be part of an innovative environment with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a new academy and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in Primary/Secondary teaching and a passion for diverse learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
Location: Boorley Green, Hampshire, SO32 2FG
Salary: Main / Upper Payscale + SEN Allowance. TLR available for wider leader positions within the school.
Solent Academies Trust is seeking a passionate, dedicated teacher to join Luminous Oak Academy in September 2026, at the start of its journey. Luminous Oak is a brand-new special free school dedicated to transforming the lives of children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Opening in September 2026 with 40 pupils in Years 5 to 8, Luminous Oak will grow over three years to be a state-of-the-art, 125-place academy for pupils in Years 4 to 11, based in the heart of the Boorley Gardens development in Eastleigh.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to build a school from the ground up, shaping its vision, culture, and provision to deliver exceptional specialist education. Named by pupils within our Trust, Luminous Oak represents strength, growth, and resilience, reflecting our commitment to empowering children and young people to thrive.
The school’s cutting-edge facilities will include:
- 15 classrooms and specialist practical learning spaces
- Therapy and intervention areas tailored to SEMH support
- A fitness suite to promote well-being and self-regulation
- Extensive outdoor spaces, including sensory courtyard and a multi-use games area
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate teacher, skilled in Primary and/or Secondary teaching, who understands the unique challenges and incredible strength of children with diverse learning needs. You will develop and deliver tailored lesson plans that inspire engagement and progress, working closely with a team of skilled professionals. We will provide high quality coaching, support and professional development.
You will have the opportunity to be innovative, creative and have fun, whilst making a real difference to the lives of our pupils who face significant challenges in their learning and development. We value our employees and as part of our teachers’ pay structure, we pay SEN Allowance which increases after 3 and 5 years of service.
For an informal discussion about the role, the academy and the Trust, please contact Louisa Paston, Principal on louisa.paston@luminousoak-academy.net.
Please complete a Solent Academies Trust teaching application form accompanied by a letter of application. In your letter, please describe the contribution you feel you can make in shaping the future of Luminous Oak.
If you have any questions at all or wish to submit an application, please email recruitment@solentacademiestrust.info. Please note we will only accept applications completed on our Solent Academies Trust application form.
Closing date for applications is Monday 22nd June 2026, 9am. Interviews will be held on Friday 26th June 2026.
Solent Academies Trust welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or religion. Only applications submitted on the academy’s application form will be accepted. Solent Academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Class Teacher - Luminous Oak Academy employer: Portsmouth City Council
Luminous Oak Academy, part of Solent Academies Trust, offers a unique opportunity for teachers to shape a brand-new special school dedicated to transforming the lives of children with SEMH needs. Located in the vibrant Boorley Green area, our supportive work culture prioritises professional development and innovation, ensuring that educators can make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive benefits, including SEN Allowance and leadership opportunities. Join us in creating an inspiring educational environment where both staff and students can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Class Teacher - Luminous Oak Academy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities at Luminous Oak Academy.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research Luminous Oak Academy and think about how your skills can shape its vision. Be ready to share your ideas on creating an engaging learning environment for pupils with SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with the Principal or other staff, let your enthusiasm for teaching shine through. Share stories of how you've made a difference in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the Solent Academies Trust application form and tailor your letter to highlight how you can contribute to the exciting journey of Luminous Oak Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Class Teacher - Luminous Oak Academy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what Luminous Oak Academy is all about. Check out our vision and values, and think about how your teaching style aligns with our mission to support children with SEMH needs.
Tailor Your Letter:When you write your letter of application, make it personal! Highlight your experiences and skills that specifically relate to the role. Show us how you can contribute to shaping the future of Luminous Oak and why you're the perfect fit for our team.
Be Authentic:We want to hear your genuine voice in your application. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for teaching and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of our pupils. Authenticity goes a long way in helping us get to know you better!
Follow the Application Process:Make sure you complete the Solent Academies Trust application form as we won’t accept anything else. Double-check your application before submitting it through our website to ensure everything is in order. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the unique challenges faced by children with SEMH needs. Familiarise yourself with the school's vision and how you can contribute to shaping its culture and provision. This will show your passion and commitment during the interview.
✨Tailor Your Lesson Plans
Prepare to discuss specific examples of tailored lesson plans you've developed in the past. Highlight how these plans engaged students and addressed their diverse learning needs. This will demonstrate your creativity and ability to adapt to different situations.
✨Show Your Compassion
Be ready to share experiences that showcase your compassion and understanding of students' emotional and mental health challenges. This could be a story about a breakthrough moment with a student or how you supported a child through a tough time.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's future, its approach to SEMH support, and professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
