SEN Teacher

About the school

Strawberry Lane School is a brand-new specialist school in Bowburn, Durham, supporting 60 pupils aged 11–19 with autism, communication needs, and additional complex needs. In a nurturing and inclusive environment, pupils receive personalised support to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. The school celebrates each learner’s strengths while providing structure, guidance, and encouragement. Strawberry Lane empowers every young person to thrive and reach their full potential.

For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care.

The role

As Strawberry Lane School continues to grow, we are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teacher to join our passionate team. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a specialist learning environment where every pupil is supported to thrive, achieve and become the very best version of themselves.

Working with children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and complex needs, you will deliver engaging, personalised learning that builds confidence, independence and a genuine love of learning. Every day offers the opportunity to celebrate progress, inspire curiosity and make a lasting difference.

You will join a welcoming, collaborative team where your ideas are valued, your development is supported, and your impact is seen every single day.

Position: SEN Teacher
Location: Strawberry Lane School, Durham, DH6 5BE
Salary: Up to £42,500 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
Start: September 2026

Key responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging, creative lessons that meet the individual needs of pupils with Autism and complex needs.
• Adapt teaching strategies to maximise engagement, achievement and personal development.
• Create a calm, inclusive and nurturing classroom where every pupil feels safe, supported and ready to learn.
• Monitor, assess and celebrate pupil progress, using assessment to inform future learning.
• Teach across a range of curriculum areas where appropriate, ensuring a broad and meaningful educational experience.
• Work collaboratively with teaching assistants, therapists, families and the wider multidisciplinary team to deliver consistent, high-quality support.
• Contribute to curriculum development, school improvement initiatives and whole-school life.
• Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusive practice.

Requirements

• Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a relevant degree.
• Have experience working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and complex needs.
• Be passionate about inclusive education and helping every child achieve their full potential.
• Be creative, adaptable and able to personalise learning to meet individual needs.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils, families and colleagues.
• Be reflective, resilient and committed to continuous professional development.
• Share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• This role is open to UK applicants only and does not offer sponsorship.

Benefits & package

• 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

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact after signing in.