SEN Teacher

Full Job Description

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SEN Teacher

Castle Garden School, Guildford, Surrey GU2 4DU

37.5 hours per week | Monday–Friday

Up to £45,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)

Permanent | Term Time Only

September 2026

UK applicants only – no sponsorship available

This is more than a teaching role—it's an opportunity to help shape a brand-new specialist school from day one. Castle Garden School is an exciting new Options Autism school in Guildford, providing a nurturing, purpose‑built environment for pupils with Autism, learning difficulties and complex needs. We're looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teacher to join our founding team and play a key role in creating a school where every child can thrive.

As one of our first teachers, you'll have the unique opportunity to help establish the school's culture, values and approach to learning. You'll deliver creative, personalised lessons that inspire confidence, encourage independence and help pupils achieve more than they ever thought possible. Working alongside a supportive multidisciplinary team of Teaching Assistants, therapists and education professionals, you'll have the time, resources and collaboration needed to make a genuine difference to every pupil's learning, wellbeing and future.

If you're passionate about inclusive education and want to be part of something truly special, we'd love to hear from you.

• Plan and deliver engaging, personalised lessons that meet the individual needs of every pupil.
• Create a calm, structured and inclusive classroom where pupils feel safe, valued and ready to learn.
• Monitor, assess and celebrate pupil progress, adapting teaching to maximise outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with Teaching Assistants, therapists, families and external professionals to provide exceptional support.
• Help establish the school's culture, routines and high expectations as part of our founding team.
• Promote pupils' confidence, independence, emotional wellbeing and positive behaviour.
• Contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and personalised learning pathways.
• Champion safeguarding and ensure the highest standards of pupil welfare at all times.

• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent recognised teaching qualification.
• Is educated to degree level.
• Has experience teaching pupils with Autism, SEND and/or complex needs (desirable).
• Is passionate about inclusive education and helping every child achieve their potential.
• Is creative, adaptable and committed to delivering engaging, personalised learning.
• Builds positive relationships with pupils, families and colleagues.
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

At Castle Garden School, you will be part of a supportive and dedicated team where professional expertise, innovation, and reflective practice are valued. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in pupils’ lives while helping shape a new specialist school from the ground up.

Opening in September 2026, this brand-new school in Guildford is part of the Options Autism group, a leading provider of specialist education individuals with complex needs. The school will support up to 40 pupils aged 11–18, offering a safe, structured, and inclusive environment tailored to meet a wide range of needs. Our schools are unique environments, each one having its own special atmosphere and range of opportunities and resources.

Our teachers enjoy becoming part of their school’s ‘family’, exploring the potential of the building and environment and getting to know the brilliant pupils in our care. For over 19 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults.

As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that…