At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and teach English to young adults, helping them find their voice and independence.
- Company: Join a warm, inclusive school community dedicated to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Extensive career development, supportive team, and state-of-the-art learning environments.
- Other info: Opportunities to shape the curriculum and work with multidisciplinary teams.
- Why this job: Make a life-changing difference every day while teaching in real-world contexts.
- Qualifications: Qualified teacher with experience in English and a passion for literacy.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
At West SILC, we believe English is about far more than qualifications. It is about helping young people find their voice, communicate with confidence, advocate for themselves, access employment, build relationships, and live as independently as possible. We are looking for an inspiring, creative and passionate English Specialist Teacher to join our Post-16 Powerhouse department in Farsley, where we are transforming what is possible for young adults with special educational needs.
Our learners follow our innovative Powerhouse Life-Changing Curriculum, designed around two key strands:
- Learning to Live – developing communication, independence, personal safety, community participation and life skills.
- Learning to Earn – preparing learners for employment through vocational learning, enterprise projects, work placements and supported internships.
Why teach English at West SILC?
- Deliver English in meaningful, real‑world contexts that make a genuine difference to learners' lives.
- Teach Functional Skills English from Entry Level 1 to Level 2, alongside personalized communication programmes and English elements of Personal Progress qualifications.
- Develop literacy through practical activities such as job applications, interviews, travel training, community learning, enterprise projects and independent living skills.
- Support learners to become confident communicators through AAC, symbols, signing, assistive technology and personalized communication systems.
- Work within state‑of‑the‑art simulated learning environments including The Hub and The Foundry, where literacy is brought to life through authentic experiences.
- Join a passionate, innovative and supportive team dedicated to preparing young people for adulthood.
What we’re looking for:
- A qualified teacher (QTS/QTLS) who believes in educating for life, not just lessons.
- A passionate English specialist who believes literacy can transform lives.
- Experience teaching English, Functional Skills English, GCSE English or literacy programmes.
- A creative practitioner who can make English engaging, relevant and accessible for learners with SEND.
- Experience of adapting learning for learners with MLD, SLD, autism, SEMH and communication needs.
- Someone who understands that communication, self‑advocacy and literacy are essential foundations for independence and employment.
- A team player who builds strong relationships with learners, families, employers and professionals.
In return, we offer:
- A warm, inclusive and values-driven school community.
- Extensive CPD and career development opportunities.
- Opportunities to shape and develop our Post‑16 English curriculum.
- Access to specialist therapists and multidisciplinary teams.
- State‑of‑the‑art learning environments.
- A strong, supportive team who care deeply about each other and our learners.
- The opportunity to make a life‑changing difference every day.
West SILC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We promote diversity and want a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds. An enhanced DBS check is required for appointment to this post.
Specialist English Teacher (Post 16) in Leeds employer: West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre
At West SILC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming the lives of young adults with special educational needs. Our warm and inclusive community fosters a collaborative work culture where creativity and passion are celebrated, offering extensive professional development opportunities and access to state-of-the-art learning environments. Join us in making a meaningful impact every day while working alongside a supportive team that values each member's contributions and well-being.
Contact Details:
West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist English Teacher (Post 16) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at West SILC on LinkedIn or through social media. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by thinking about how you can make English engaging for learners with SEND. Bring examples of creative lesson plans or activities that showcase your passion and innovation in teaching.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your understanding of the Powerhouse Life-Changing Curriculum. Be ready to discuss how you would implement real-world contexts in your lessons to help students develop essential life skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at West SILC.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist English Teacher (Post 16) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for teaching English shine through in your application. We want to see how you can inspire and engage learners, especially those with special educational needs. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in your previous roles!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the job description. Highlight your experience with Functional Skills English and any creative methods you've used to teach literacy. We love seeing how you can adapt your teaching style to meet diverse learner needs.
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. We’re looking for someone who can build strong relationships with learners and colleagues alike. Share your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with our values at West SILC.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about our school community and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre
✨Know Your Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the Powerhouse Life-Changing Curriculum. Be ready to discuss how you can deliver English in real-world contexts that resonate with learners' lives. Think about specific examples of how you've made English engaging and relevant in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to share innovative ideas for teaching Functional Skills English. Consider practical activities like job applications or community learning that you've used before. Highlight how you adapt lessons for learners with SEND, showcasing your creativity and flexibility.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since communication is key, be prepared to discuss your experience with AAC, symbols, and assistive technology. Share examples of how you've supported learners in becoming confident communicators and how you plan to continue this at West SILC.
✨Build Relationships
Demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships with learners, families, and professionals. Think of specific instances where you've collaborated with others to support a learner's journey. This will show that you're a team player who values community and connection.
