At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver high-quality English teaching and provide pastoral support to neurodiverse learners.
- Company: Oaks Rise CIC, a supportive alternative provision for autistic learners.
- Benefits: Term-time work, generous PPA, pension scheme, flexible home working, and strong staff wellbeing focus.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to creating a nurturing educational environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of neurodivergent young people while developing your teaching skills.
- Qualifications: QTS or equivalent experience, understanding of neuro-affirming practices, and experience with autistic learners.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Oaks Rise CIC is an Alternative Provision for autistic learners aged 9–16 who have self-excluded from mainstream education due to high levels of anxiety and sensory, social, or emotional needs. Learners at Oaks Rise can access an age-related curriculum and achieve GCSEs and other secondary accreditations but have gaps in their learning across KS2 - KS4 due to disrupted education. Our provision supports learners to re-engage with education while rebuilding wellbeing and self-esteem. Our approach is neuro-affirming, structured and adult-guided whilst being low-demand and consent-based. Authentic relationships and trust are central to everything we do.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced, QTS-qualified English teacher to join our talented and committed team. The role will deliver high-quality English teaching alongside excellent pastoral support, helping learners re-engage with education, develop emotional wellbeing, and make academic progress.
Key responsibilities include:
- Delivering high-quality English teaching across KS3–KS4, including GCSE English Language teaching.
- Acting as Key Adult and Community Group Facilitator for up to nine learners, providing consistent pastoral support.
- Liaising with commissioners (principally local authorities and schools) and supporting EHCP processes.
Job Requirements
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS/QTLS) or equivalent relevant teaching experience.
- Strong understanding of & commitment to neuro-affirming, low-demand and consent-based practice.
- Good understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.
- Experience teaching English in secondary settings.
- Experience working with autistic children and young people.
Why Join Us?
- Term-time working with 52 paid weeks per year, inclusive of holiday entitlement.
- Generous PPA allocation and additional termly INSET days.
- Pension and occupational sick pay scheme.
- Flexible home working arrangements for PPA time.
- Free parking.
- One-hour lunch break with no learners on site.
- Strong commitment to staff wellbeing and neuro-inclusion.
- Comprehensive induction and high-quality training.
- Opportunity to work within a highly experienced and committed team.
- Chance to help shape a genuinely effective and nurturing provision for neurodivergent young people.
English Lead for Neurodiverse Learners (KS3–KS4) employer: Progressive Education Group
Oaks Rise CIC is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and learners. With a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, generous benefits including term-time working, flexible arrangements, and comprehensive training, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of neurodiverse learners. Join our passionate team and contribute to shaping a nurturing educational provision that prioritises authentic relationships and personal growth.
Contact Details:
Progressive Education Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land English Lead for Neurodiverse Learners (KS3–KS4)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with neurodiverse learners. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what Oaks Rise is really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding Oaks Rise's approach. Familiarise yourself with neuro-affirming practices and think of examples from your experience that showcase your commitment to low-demand and consent-based teaching. We want to see how you can fit into their unique environment!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting autistic learners. During your conversations, share stories that highlight your experience and success in helping students re-engage with education. Authenticity goes a long way in building trust, which is key at Oaks Rise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Oaks Rise team and contributing to their mission of supporting neurodiverse learners.
We think you need these skills to ace English Lead for Neurodiverse Learners (KS3–KS4)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for teaching and supporting neurodiverse learners shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience with autistic children and your understanding of neuro-affirming practices. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and commitment.
Be Authentic:Authenticity is key! Use your own voice and style in your application. We value genuine connections, so don’t be afraid to share your personal teaching philosophy and approach.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Progressive Education Group
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to understand Oaks Rise CIC and their approach to education. Familiarise yourself with their neuro-affirming practices and how they support autistic learners. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience teaching English, especially in secondary settings. Highlight any specific strategies you've used to engage neurodiverse learners and how you've adapted your teaching methods to meet their needs. Concrete examples will make your case stronger.
✨Emphasise Pastoral Support Skills
Since the role involves acting as a Key Adult and providing pastoral support, be prepared to talk about your approach to building authentic relationships with students. Share examples of how you've supported learners emotionally and academically in the past.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about their training programmes, how they measure success for their learners, or what a typical day looks like. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
