Specialist Teacher

My School are a well-established organisation dedicated to supporting individuals on the Autism Spectrum, from early childhood through to adulthood. Our range of services aims to empower those with autism to live as independently as possible, while fostering inclusion and choice within society. Our work is built on five core principles:

• Providing skills and strategies for people with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC).
• Embracing a personalised, individual-centered approach.
• Building a shared understanding of each person’s strengths and needs.
• Working collaboratively to empower rather than control individuals with ASC.
• Recognising people with ASC as valued, independent members of society.

Role Overview

As a Specialist Teacher, you’ll provide high-quality professional support to each student within the learning environment, working alongside teaching assistants and specialist support staff. You will tailor the curriculum to each student’s stage, age, and ability, helping them progress and thrive. Your responsibilities will include planning lessons, managing the classroom environment, and ensuring students’ welfare, all while maintaining thorough records.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer a curriculum relevant to each student’s developmental stage and needs, following assessment guidelines.
• Develop and assess Individual Education Plans (IEPs), ensuring they meet each student’s requirements.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records on students’ progress.
• Work with students exhibiting challenging behaviour, with full training in behaviour management and intervention.
• Support students during break times, meals, and personal hygiene routines as needed.
• Oversee classroom organisation, including the management of staff, students, and the physical environment.
• Participate in assemblies, register attendance, and contribute to student progress reports.
• Prepare for and attend annual review meetings, case conferences, and parent meetings.
• Maintain regular contact with parents, welcoming them to the classroom and, where appropriate, conducting home visits.
• Take responsibility for leading curriculum areas or key stages as agreed with school management.

Training and Development

• Engage in professional development through the school’s supervision and appraisal system.
• Attend in-service training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge, occasionally outside of regular hours.
• Identify personal development needs and proactively pursue relevant training opportunities.

Safeguarding and Child Protection

• This role involves unsupervised contact with students and requires appropriate child protection and safeguarding training.
• All staff must adhere to our Child Protection and Safeguarding policies, reporting any concerns immediately.

Professional Expectations

• Represent our organisation positively, acting as an ambassador.
• Communicate professionally and constructively with staff, parents, and other community members.
• Be flexible in working arrangements to foster effective team collaboration.
• Collaborate with residential and educational staff to ensure consistency of practice.
• Stay informed of relevant legislation and teaching approaches within the autism field.

Person Specification

Education and Qualifications

• Essential: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), relevant degree, GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science.
• Desirable: Training in special education and behaviour management, Team Teach, and emergency first aid certification.

Experience

• Essential: Experience in autism and special educational needs, particularly supporting students with anxiety and challenging behaviours.
• Desirable: Knowledge of communication systems and educational legislation, experience with National Curriculum standards and teaching to GCSE level.

Skills and Personal Qualities

• Strong organisational and record-keeping skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
• Empathetic, patient, and adaptable, with a positive approach to change.
• Resilience, professionalism, and a commitment to supporting and advocating for students with autism.

We look forward to welcoming a dedicated educator who shares our passion for supporting students with autism in achieving their full potential.