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 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are searching for the best education professionals. Employer Location: Taunton, Somerset. Contract Type: Permanent. Hours: Full Time, Term Time. Salary: MPS/UPS (dependent on experience) plus SEN1. Posted: 13th February 2026. Start Date: 20th April 2026. Expires: 23rd February 2026 11:59 PM.
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: The Oak Partnership
The Oak Partnership in Taunton is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive work environment for Nursery Practitioners dedicated to delivering high-quality childcare. With a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children at Little Herons Nursery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teacher in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Selworthy Special School and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios involving SEN learners. Use examples from your experience to demonstrate your skills and empathy.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teacher in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and passion for supporting learners with specific needs. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Selworthy School!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t forget to mention your Qualified Teacher Status and any relevant experience you have, especially in managing complex behaviours. We love seeing how you've made a difference in previous roles!
Be Yourself:Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone with an empathetic and patient demeanour, so don’t be afraid to share your unique approach to teaching and supporting SEN learners.
Apply Early:Remember, we might close applications early if we find the right candidate, so get your application in as soon as possible through our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Oak Partnership
✨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 effective teaching strategies. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about supporting diverse learners.
✨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 experience. This will demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Scenarios
Expect questions about managing challenging behaviours. Think of real-life situations where you've successfully navigated these challenges. Discuss your strategies and how they helped maintain a positive learning atmosphere, showcasing your ability to adapt and respond effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready about the school's approach to SEN or professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
