SEND Class Teacher

Company Description

Divergent Schools provides a new, radically compassionate, model of special education for children in the missing middle - those children who need more specific support than mainstream schools offer, but who do not need the intensity of support typically found in special schools.

We have a flat organisational structure and a MD whose career has been in SEND school teaching and Headship, meaning big decisions are never made without the involvement of someone who has lived a teaching career. We are proudly not-for-profit, and founded by two neurodivergent CoFounders, who have created Divergent Schools out of a determination to make the education system better for children with SEND.

The Divergent School Dover is our second in a growing national group of schools, providing a special school environment to children ages 11-16, the school will be co-ed and work mostly with children who have an EHCP. The school building is within the grounds of Dover College, who will also offer pupils use of facilities and some learning opportunities. 

It is our mission to contribute to the national offer for children with SEND. With contemporary approaches to neuro-inclusion and highly skilled, always qualified, staff we provide high quality education which is just the right fit for SENBetween children.

Our socials are a great place to get a sense of how our group, and established school, work. You can find us on @DivergentSchools on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok.

Role Description

This is a rare opportunity for an innovative SEND teacher to be part of building a new secondary special school, with a new model, from the very beginning.

The Class Teacher will be responsible for shaping and delivering the curriculum of the school to their own class of 6 - 10 pupils, supported by a HLTA. They will deliver lessons in all subjects, with the national curriculum Key Stage Three framework providing the basis of the curriculum. However this is heavily individualised according to pupil's talents and special educational needs. We're looking for teacher who would relish the opportunity to be innovative and creative in curriculum delivery.

Safeguarding is an integral part of this role.

The Class Teacher will work closely with the Headteacher, HLTA, SaLT and OT to ensure that sound pedagogical principles are applied, which genuinely keep the child, and everything they have to offer, at the centre of the school.

• on-site, based in Dover

• term time only

• Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm

• £35,000 - £45,000 salary

• paid pro-rata

• safer recruitment procedures apply

• passionate equal opportunities ethos

• passionate protection of staff wellbeing

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified teacher with QTS

• At least two years experience of teaching in a special school

• Comfortable teaching across all Key Stage Three subjects

• Expertise in curriculum development, with a focus on delivering excellent educational outcomes for neurodivergent children

• Sound knowledge of pedagogy, with a focus on developing innovative ways to teach neuro-divergent children

• Sound knowledge of child centered and strengths lead practice

• Heartfelt belief in the rights of children with special needs to a quality education