At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners with complex needs in a nurturing and inclusive environment.
- Company: Selworthy Special School, a family-like community in Taunton.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and staff wellbeing activities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of differently-abled learners.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience with SEN learners.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 45000 £ per year.
Selworthy is a special school for children and young people with learning disabilities aged 4 – 19. We have two campuses, both situated on the northern side of Taunton, Somerset. Our Oakhill Campus houses our primary school provision and since 2019 our secondary and 6th form provision has been based at our Hazelbrook Campus. Being part of Selworthy School is like belonging to a family. Children and young people, parents and carers, staff, local residents and visitors are welcomed into a happy and purposeful community where everyone is challenged to go on a learning journey and maximise achievement.
About the role
We are looking to appoint an experienced, caring and professional Class Teacher to join our team at Selworthy Special School, who has a willingness and flexibility to work in different age ranges. You’ll have an enthusiasm for supporting learners with a variety of complex needs, providing learning support with a positive and inclusive outlook, and managing sometimes complex behaviours within a structured learning environment to ensure differently-abled learners can reach their full potential.
Requirements
- Qualified Teacher Status with minimum of 2 years experience.
- Passion and commitment for supporting learners with specific needs.
- An empathetic, patient and tolerant demeanor.
- Key organisation and communication skills.
- Experience with managing complex behaviours and helping SEN learners to achieve.
We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice where all staff can thrive. We believe that supporting our staff both personally and professionally allows them to give their very best to our students.
What Selworthy School offers its staff:
- Full induction programme and ongoing professional development.
- A rewarding role with excellent support and multiple opportunities for career progression.
- Comprehensive pension scheme.
- Provision of free tea/coffee for staff.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Staff wellbeing activities (exercise classes, access to Hydropool, staff and family events).
- Wellbeing room and information on wellbeing approaches.
- Access to Occupational Health Service.
Note to all applicants - The Oak Partnership Trust reserve the right to close an advertisement to applications ahead of the advertised closure date. For this reason, shortlisting may take place prior to the closing date on some occasions. With this in mind, please do not hesitate to apply early. Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates shortlisted for interview will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Closing date: Monday 23rd February 2026
Interviews: 26th February 2026
Safeguarding Statement: Selworthy Special School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
SEN Teacher in Taunton employer: Selworthy School
Selworthy School, part of the Oak Partnership Trust, is an exceptional employer located in Taunton, Somerset, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. With a strong emphasis on professional development, staff wellbeing, and a commitment to continuous improvement, employees are encouraged to grow within their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. The vibrant school culture, combined with unique benefits such as free refreshments and access to wellness activities, makes Selworthy an attractive place for passionate individuals seeking a rewarding career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teacher in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know about openings before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN teaching. Think about your experiences and how you can showcase your empathy and patience in managing complex behaviours.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and helps you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay positive and persistent! The right role is out there for you. Keep refining your approach and don’t hesitate to seek feedback from peers or mentors on your interview techniques.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teacher in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting learners with specific needs shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially with managing complex behaviours and working with SEN learners. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Selworthy School.
Be Yourself:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We’re looking for empathetic and patient individuals who can connect with our students, so show us who you are!
Apply Early:Remember, we might close applications early if we find the right candidate, so don’t wait until the last minute! Head over to our website and get your application in as soon as you can.
How to prepare for a job interview at Selworthy School
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs. Familiarise yourself with different types of learning disabilities and the strategies that work best for supporting these learners. This will show your passion and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported students with complex needs in the past. Highlight your empathetic approach and how it has positively impacted their learning journey. This will demonstrate your suitability for the caring environment at Selworthy School.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Scenarios
Expect questions about managing complex behaviours. Think of real-life situations where you successfully handled challenging behaviour and what techniques you used. This will help you convey your experience and ability to create a structured learning environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school's approach to professional development and staff wellbeing. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community and committed to your own growth as an educator.
