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- Tasks: Lead and inspire SEND students in a nurturing classroom environment.
- Company: Join Ark Ayrton Primary Academy, a supportive and inclusive school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a friendly staff community.
- Other info: Enjoy a creative curriculum and strong support network.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your teaching skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for teaching and experience with SEND students preferred.
The predicted salary is between 20423 - 25904 £ per year.
The children of Ark Ayrton Primary Academy are looking for a committed and nurturing SEND Teacher to join our team. This role combines high-quality teaching with specialist practice for pupils with complex needs for our stage-not-age provision. You will lead learning for pupils who are unable to access mainstream provision, ensuring they make progress academically, socially and emotionally.
Key Responsibilities
- Uphold and demonstrate the vision and ethos of the Academy at all times
- Provide a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment for children, where all can thrive
- Take ownership of own development and support the development of others
- Plan and teach effective lessons that engage, motivate and inspire children to achieve
- Regularly assess children and be accountable for their progress and attainment
- Communicate effectively with parents and other stakeholders
- Undertake various responsibilities as directed by the Headteacher
We can offer you:
- Great coaching programme, which is supportive and will develop you to be outstanding!
- Opportunities to visit other practices and learn from a variety of practitioners
- Supportive network of staff around you
- Additional PPA and co-planning on top of your statutory allowance for all teaching staff
- Sociable and friendly staff with regular staff socials
- CPD opportunities through the Art Network
- Creative curriculum to engage and motivate children
- Amazing children who are eager to learn, caring and kind
- A chance to make a difference
- A well-resourced school that provides children with an opportunity to excel in all curriculum areas
- Dedicated Pastoral team to provide an additional layer of support for children
- For Early Career Teachers, we can offer you an in-depth support programme and experienced mentor
About us:
Ark Ayrton are a two-form entry primary school and nursery, situated in the heart of Portsmouth, close to the sea. We have high expectations of our children and for our children of what they can achieve. Our priorities are to ensure all children are here, safe, happy and learning well at all times. This means we also have high expectations of ourselves, our parents and carers and the other people who work with us in improving outcomes for our children. We work closely with our partners and challenge each other openly and honestly to be sure we never lose sight of the vision and the job to be done in achieving excellence for all. We have a strong and dedicated staff team at Ayrton - all ready to provide the best education and environment for the children to thrive in every day. We have a bespoke Curriculum, written by us for our children and we are passionate and relentless in ensuring that there is something for everyone at Ark Ayrton. We have been graded as ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted and as part of the Ark network of schools, we are committed to making sure that every child has access to a great education and real choices in life.
If you would like to get a glimpse into life at Ark Ayrton, please visit our website or social media pages. Visits to school or telephone calls with our team are welcomed for any candidates wanting to find out more. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Lynda Miller at l.miller@arkayrtonprimary.org. To apply please visit this link and fill in the application form; all application forms must be submitted by Tuesday 19th May 2026.
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our academies. In order to meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process which will include questions about safeguarding. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent English is an essential requirement for the role. Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non-disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred.
We aim to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone – staff and students – can do their best work and achieve their full potential. We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger and more effective.
SEND Class Teacher - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Class Teacher - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, check out Ark Ayrton's website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their ethos and values so you can show how you fit into their vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to SEND teaching. Think about your experiences and how they align with the role, and don’t forget to have a few questions ready for them too!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for teaching and supporting children with complex needs shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Class Teacher - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of children, especially those with complex needs.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Ark Ayrton. Highlight your experience and skills that align with our commitment to providing outstanding education and support for all children.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily see your qualifications and what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the details you need about the role and our school there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the children you'll be teaching at Ark Ayrton. This will show that you're not just passionate about teaching, but also understand the unique challenges and strategies involved in supporting these pupils.
✨Showcase Your Nurturing Side
During the interview, highlight your ability to create a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged and motivated children, especially those with complex needs. This will demonstrate that you align with the Academy's ethos of providing a supportive learning space.
✨Prepare for Safeguarding Questions
Since safeguarding is a top priority for Ark, be ready to discuss your understanding of child protection policies and how you would implement them in your role. Think of specific scenarios where you’ve had to ensure the safety and well-being of children, as this will show your commitment to their welfare.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to SEND education and professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if Ark Ayrton is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn more about their supportive network and coaching programmes!