Most SEN teachers inherit outdated buildings, stretched resources and teams that are already exhausted. This is different: you would be joining a purpose-built special school at its founding moment, with the chance to shape how it works from day one. If you have QTS and real passion for working with young people with autism and SEMH needs, this could be the role where your impact is visible and immediate
Imagine walking into a school designed specifically for the children it serves. No cramped adaptations, no legacy systems holding you back. This home is brand new, purpose-built for ages 4 to 19, with a multidisciplinary team already in place: therapists, support staff, colleagues who understand that teaching a child with autism means meeting them exactly where they are. You would be part of the founding team, helping to write the culture and approach that defines this place for years to come
The young people here have autism spectrum condition and social, emotional and mental health needs that demand creativity, patience and real skill. You would deliver a tailored curriculum that actually works for each child, not a one-size-fits-all paper exercise. You would see tangible progress: children gaining confidence, independence, a sense of belonging. And you would see them leave with GCSE qualifications in their hands, doors open to their futures
This is a school with high academic expectations built on a foundation of genuine care. You would work alongside therapists and support staff in a truly collaborative environment, attending to the whole child: their learning, their emotional needs, their sense of safety. The feedback you get is immediate and real. When a young person makes a breakthrough, you see it. When your approach works, you know it works
What you will be doing
- Deliver a tailored curriculum that meets each student's unique needs and enables real progress
- Use creative and engaging teaching methods that ignite curiosity and inspire learning in young people with autism and SEMH needs
- Work collaboratively with therapists, support staff and colleagues to provide holistic care and education
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that builds confidence, independence and belonging
- Monitor, assess and celebrate student progress, adapting your approach to ensure every child experiences success
Why you will love working here
- Permanent full-time position starting January 2027, so you can plan properly
- Salary on the Main Pay Scale or Upper Pay Scale, depending on your experience and where you sit
- Join a founding team: you shape the ethos and success of a brand-new school, not inherit someone else's problems
- Work with a purpose-built facility designed for the young people it serves, with a multidisciplinary team of therapists and skilled support staff
- See your impact directly: teach young people who leave with GCSE qualifications and real prospects ahead of them
Is this you?
- You hold QTS or QTLS (or equivalent qualification)
- You have experience or a genuine, strong interest in working with children with autism spectrum condition and associated SEMH needs
- You are flexible and creative in your approach to teaching and learning, willing to try what works rather than what fits a formula
- You communicate clearly and build trusting relationships easily with students, families and colleagues
- You are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
Applications close on 12 October 2026. Great roles like this are filled quickly, so the sooner you apply the better.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.