At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach English and foundation subjects to pupils with complex learning needs.
- Company: Join Options Autism, a leader in care and education for pupils with autism and complex needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, life assurance, flexible pension, and mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a supportive environment with small class sizes and dedicated planning time.
- Qualifications: UK QTS or equivalent; experience with SEN/ASC preferred.
- Other info: Visit the school to learn more about this exciting opportunity!
The predicted salary is between 32800 - 45600 £ per year.
How would you like to be paid for five days but only work four?
Our colleagues’ wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do at OFG, so we’re always looking for new ways to improve everyone’s work/life balance. We’re taking part in a trial of the 4-Day Working Week, meaning that you could be working one day less a week (or equivalent).
If the trial is a success, we’ll be rolling the 4DWW out across the Group – so there’s never been a more exciting time to join #teamOFG!
Job Title: English Teacher – Maternity Cover
Location: Underley Garden School, Kirkby Lonsdale, LA6 2DZ
Salary: Up to £41,000.00 per annum plus a Welcome Bonus of £1,000**
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract: Fixed Term | Term Time Only
Start: October 2026
UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
We now have a fantastic opportunity for an English Teacher – Maternity Cover (with History as an additional subject) to join our team at Underley Garden School, part of Options Autism.
About the Role
We are looking for a qualified and enthusiastic teacher to deliver English to pupils with complex learning needs, spanning Key Stage 1 to Post-16. You will also deliver some foundation subject lessons throughout the week.
All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and present a range of needs including:
- Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC)
- Learning Difficulties
- Mental Health or Medical Needs
- Behavioural challenges
This role requires a creative, flexible teacher who is passionate about working in a specialist environment where every pupil matters.
What We Offer
- Small class sizes for personalised teaching
- Dedicated planning and preparation time
- A well-resourced department
- Motivated pupils in a supportive setting
- A welcoming staff team
- Ongoing professional development within a growing education group
About You
We’re looking for someone with:
- UK QTS or equivalent
- Experience or interest in working with pupils with SEN/ASC
- The ability to teach English across ages and abilities
- Confidence to deliver some foundation subjects
- A nurturing, resilient, flexible approach
- A commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing
Visit Us or Learn More
Visits to the school are encouraged. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact us at: 015242 71569 or visit www.underleygarden.co.uk
About Us
Underley Garden School caters to pupils aged 5-19 with complex needs related to autism and learning disabilities, including communication, sensory, and behavioural challenges. We adopt a holistic, person-centred approach to help pupils achieve their potential through education, care, and therapy.
Located near Kirkby Lonsdale, on the edge of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, with good access to Lancaster, Cumbria, and surrounding areas.
Part of Outcomes First Group, a leader in providing care and education for pupils and adults with autism and complex needs, and recognized as a ‘Great Place to Work’ in 2024.
Why join Options Autism?
We focus on positive outcomes for pupils, making a meaningful impact on their lives. All applicants undergo safeguarding checks and a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with flexible contributions
- Access to mental health and physical health support
Our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, offers options like:
- Travel Allowance (up to £450)
- Health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
- Discount options, Cycle to Work, Electric Car schemes
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support (maternity, paternity, fertility support)
Additional Benefits
- Birthday chocolates, Christmas gift vouchers
- BUPA Wellbeing, Employee Assistance Programme
- Team building days, attendance incentives
Note: You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% pay, subject to probation and not a contractual benefit. The Welcome Bonus is paid in two installments: £500 after 3 months and £500 after six months or later. Terms apply.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if high volumes of applications are received.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
English Teacher – Maternity Cover employer: Tesol Inc
Contact Detail:
Tesol Inc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land English Teacher – Maternity Cover
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with complex learning difficulties, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Conditions. Understanding their unique challenges and how to support them will demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in special education or working with SEN/ASC pupils during your interview. Share specific examples of how you've adapted your teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for the 4-Day Working Week initiative by discussing how this approach can enhance both teacher wellbeing and student engagement. This will align you with the school's values and vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider visiting Underley Garden School before your interview. Engaging with the environment and staff will not only give you insights into the school culture but also provide you with talking points that can impress during your conversation.
We think you need these skills to ace English Teacher – Maternity Cover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications, especially your UK QTS or equivalent. Emphasise any experience you have working with pupils with SEN/ASC and your ability to teach English across different ages and abilities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for teaching and your commitment to pupil wellbeing. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your nurturing and flexible approach, as well as your enthusiasm for working in a specialist environment.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills that are particularly relevant to the role, such as creativity in lesson planning, resilience in managing behavioural challenges, and your commitment to safeguarding. Use examples to illustrate these skills.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tesol Inc
✨Show Your Passion for Teaching
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for teaching English, especially in a specialist environment. Share specific examples of how you've engaged students with complex learning needs in the past.
✨Highlight Your SEN Experience
Discuss any experience you have working with pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC). Be prepared to share strategies you've used to support these learners effectively.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Creativity
Since the role requires a creative and flexible approach, think of examples where you've adapted your teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs. This will show that you're ready for the challenges of the role.
✨Prepare Questions About the School's Approach
Come prepared with questions about Underley Garden School's teaching philosophy and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the school and its commitment to pupil wellbeing.