Job Description
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SEND Class Teacher(Autism Support CentrePrimary)
Salary:MPS/UPS
Contract:Full-time, Permanent
Start Date:September 2026
Location:The Downs Primary School and Nursery
About Us
The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community (PCLC)is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all pupils. We proudly host primary and secondary enhanced provisions for pupils with autism on behalf of Essex CountyCouncil(ECC).Our provisions are central to our commitment to inclusion; guided by an ethos of unconditional positive regard, we ensure every pupil is valued and supported to achieve their full potential
In Autumn 2026,the PCLCwill open asecond primary Autism Support Centre in West Essex, in collaboration with ECC.This expansion presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen collaboration across the Trust, enabling us to share best practice, grow collectiveexpertise, and further enhance the quality and consistency of provision for pupils with autism.
About the Role
This role is based in a new 10-place Primary ASC atThe Downs Primary School and Nursery,supporting pupils aged 4-11. You will deliver a highly adapted curriculum, combining quality-first teaching with personalised interventions to meet a range of developmental needs.
This is a unique opportunity to shape a new provision, lead inclusive practice, and make a meaningful impact on pupils with autism.
Key responsibilities:
Deliver and model quality-first, adaptive teaching (whole class, small group and 1:1)
Plan and deliver individualised, person-centred programmes within a broad and balanced curriculum
Align the curriculum in the ASC and teaching practice with the main school, following phonics and maths schemes
Provide targeted interventions, including pre-learning and overlearning, to support academic and social progress
Work collaboratively with mainstream colleagues to support access,inclusionand integration
Lead and support the ASC team
Work with families and external professionals
Monitor progress and contribute to EHCP reviews
What We AreLooking For
Strong primary teaching practice (ECTs welcome)
Experience of, or interest in, autism and SEND
Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) structured approaches (e.g. TEACCH, visual supports, sensory strategies)
Creative,flexibleand inclusive approach to teaching
Strong communicationand teamwork skills
Commitment to ongoing professional development
Understanding of, or willingness to develop, EYFS and developmental approaches
A commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity within the school community
Strong communicationand collaboration skills to support mainstream access
What We Offer
A well-resourced and expanding specialist provision
Opportunities to contribute to a growing ASC model across the Trust
A supportive team and strong leadership backing
A role where you can make a significant impact on children's live
High staff-to-pupil ratio
Specialist training and bespoke CPD
As this is a new provision, the role offers strong progression opportunities, including the potential to become Head of ASC (with SEN allowance). The successful candidate will be supported to undertake the NPQ for SENCOs and benefit from a tailored CPD programme focused on autism-specific teaching, interventions, and adaptations. We are seeking a reflective practitioner committed to continuous professional development and achieving the best possible outcomes for pupils.
Visits to our existing provision are warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit, and to meet with our Director of Primary Inclusion, Lucy Thomas please contact HR on hr@pclc.co.uk
'PCLC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure Barring Service'
Information about the School
The Downs is a "good school where pupils thrive both socially and academically because they are well looked after and kept safe in a caring environment that puts their needs first." - OFSTED January 2016.
We are a 2 form entry primary school and we are situated centrally in Harlow adjacent to the town centre. We are committed to making the school experience for all our children of the highest standard.
Why not visit our website, www.downs.essex.sch.uk, and see us for yourselves.