‘...Reducing Barriers to Expand Horizons...’
Do you understand that behaviour, whether loud or quiet, is a form of communication? Are you the kind of teacher who looks beyond labels and sanctions to see the child or young person underneath? Do you believe that with the right relationships, safety and care, every young person can grow and thrive? If so, we’d love to hear from you.
Woodeaton Manor School is a nurturing and ambitious specialist secondary school for pupils aged 11–16, all of whom have an EHCP linked to social, Emotional, Mental Health Needs. Nestled in a Grade II Listed Manor house with breath-taking scenery it really could not be a more exciting time to join our school and get to work with our pupils. They need time, trust and sensitive support to feel safe enough to learn but when they get this they are truly amazing: creative, thoughtful, funny and full of potential! They need adults who understand them, believe in them and can see just how awesome they really are.
More than a workplace, WMS is a community. We believe in belonging, not just inclusion. Our staff are trusted professionals, encouraged to share ideas, reflect deeply, lead change and keep learning. Whether you are an experienced SEN teacher, early in your career or wanting to move from mainstream into Special, you will find a team that has your back and a leadership group that genuinely believes in you.
This role is for teachers who
- Understand that behaviour is communication and the key importance of relationships
- Believe in values driven restorative principles
- Know that progress isn’t always linear, and that small steps are still meaningful
- Can balance high expectations with compassion, patience and flexibility
- Want to make a lifelong difference, not just deliver lessons
What we Offer
- Competitive salary + SEN allowance, and scope for a TLR
- Fully funded CPD, mentoring & coaching
- A trust-wide commitment to wellbeing, including paid wellbeing days, (1 each long term!) generous protected PPA time, the ‘good biscuits’ for staff meetings, and free on-site parking.
- Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
- Access to an employee assistance programme
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Employee referral scheme (earn up to £500 for successful referrals)
- Highly resourced classrooms, small class sizes and access to multidisciplinary teams
- A truly unique student body (that will make you smile every day!)
- A caring and supportive staff team
- A SLT who really do value work life balance!
- Passionate, supportive colleagues who genuinely care
- The opportunity to shape provision and be part of a school that is always evolving
- A strong safeguarding and therapeutic culture
About the Role
- Plan and deliver engaging, differentiated lessons tailored to pupils’ developmental needs as a KS3 Nurture Class Teacher (Primary Based Model)
- Use assessment effectively to inform teaching, interventions and personalised progress
- Promote a safe, nurturing environment that supports wellbeing, independence and dignity
- Work closely with therapists, support staff and families to provide holistic support linking EHCP outcomes to lived experience and learning
- Contribute to whole-school development and our inclusive, forward-thinking ethos
- Engage in professional learning and share best practice across the school
- Support and engage with our school improvement journey (it is a very exciting time to join WMS!)
Who We’re Looking For
- Qualified teacher status (QTS)
- Experience in an SEN setting or strong understanding of the needs of SEMH / SEN Learners
- Knowledge of current SEN legislation, assessment and best practice
- Creative, adaptable and committed to meeting diverse learning needs
- A resilient, positive team player who builds strong relationships with pupils and families
- A reflective practitioner with a growth mindset
How to Apply
To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager, Fliss Pusey, on 01865 558722, who can arrange for you to have an informal conversation with the New Headteacher who would love to show you what makes Woodeaton Manor School such a special place.