SEN Teacher

Job Title

SEN Teacher – Primary

Dibden Park School, Southampton SO45 5TD

40 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm

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

Permanent, Term Time Only

September 2026

UK applicants only – no sponsorship available

Are you a passionate, child‑centred educator who believes every young person deserves to thrive? Do you bring creativity, compassion and curiosity to your teaching? We are seeking an inspiring Primary SEN Teacher to join our dedicated team and help shape a nurturing, neuro‑affirming environment where pupils with complex needs can flourish academically, socially and emotionally.

• Deliver high‑quality, engaging teaching across a range of subjects, ensuring every pupil experiences success.
• Champion neuro‑affirming and trauma‑informed approaches that celebrate pupils’ strengths and support their emotional wellbeing.
• Play a key role in shaping and developing SEN provision across the school.
• Work closely with Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychotherapy colleagues to deliver individualised, therapeutic education plans.
• Model effective strategies for teachers and teaching assistants, helping to build whole‑school expertise in supporting autistic pupils and those with complex needs.
• Create a stimulating, well‑organised learning environment that promotes independence, communication and confidence.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers, ensuring they feel informed, involved and valued.

• QTS or equivalent required.
• Experience supporting primary‑aged learners (SEN experience desirable but not essential – passion and willingness to learn matter most).
• A strong commitment to neuro‑affirming, trauma‑informed practice.
• An understanding of how children’s life experiences shape their learning.
• Knowledge of high‑quality teaching, assessment and curriculum planning.
• The ability to analyse pupil progress and use data to inform next steps.
• Excellent communication skills and the confidence to work collaboratively with families, colleagues and external agencies.
• Driving licence required.

Dibden Park School is a brand‑new independent specialist school in Southampton, supporting pupils with SEMH needs, communication difficulties and associated complex behaviour. The school provides a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where small classes and personalised support help every pupil thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Our broad and purposeful curriculum combines formal learning with life skills and enrichment activities to develop confidence, independence, and resilience.

Pupils benefit from staff who understand their individual needs and remove barriers to engagement. Working closely with families, the school fosters strong relationships and a supportive community. Dibden Park empowers every pupil to achieve their full potential and prepare for life beyond school.

Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence‑based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact. Outcomes First Group was officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.

• Life Assurance.
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions.
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks.
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista) including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, hundreds of UK and international discounts, Cycle to Work Scheme, Electric Car Purchase Scheme, Critical illness cover.
• Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.