Job Description
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Merrylands Primary School and Nursery has an exciting opportunity for a full time Teacher to join our fantastic team and lead our Autism Support Centre.
Start date: September 2026 (or an earlier start may be possible).
Pay Range: Main / Upper Pay Range (+ SEN 1 allowance)
Applications close: Midday on 13th May 2026. Interview date: Wednesday 20th May 2026.
School
Merrylands Primary School and Nursery is located in Cumberland Drive, Laindon, Basildon. We are one of 11 schools which form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background.
Are you an experienced primary school teacher? Do you have a passion for supporting pupils with special educational needs? Would you like the opportunity to work alongside other professionals to develop and share best practice for pupils with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC)?
If the answer to these questions is yes, we have a rare and exciting opportunity for you at Merrylands Primary School and Nursery. We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and dynamic lead teacher who will be responsible for the provision of pupils in our Autism Support Centre. The Autism Support Centre is an enhanced provision for pupils with an EHCP where autism is recognised as their primary need. The aim of the provision is to support each child to overcome barriers they face in attending the mainstream classroom. This role is a great opportunity to further develop knowledge of SEND as well as experience of leading others and working with other professionals.
We are looking for a person who:
- is an experienced primary school teacher with knowledge and experience of supporting pupils with SEND
- has demonstratable experience of supporting children with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC)
- has completed relevant training or qualifications on supporting pupils with ASC
- has high expectations of children and themselves with a passion for raising standards and attainment
- has an engaging teaching style which enthuses and motivates the children to learn, works well as part of a team and has a commitment to improving and developing their own practice
- can lead and support others in delivering best practice for pupils with ASC and is able to liaise with other agencies with confidence
We can offer you:
- a well-resourced learning environment with enthusiastic and supportive staff
- a forward looking school that is dedicated to the success of all children and staff
- support from outreach teams and the local authority
- access to our Employee Assistance Programme for all staff and their families
- a commitment to continued professional development
Berlesduna is a Trust that values and invests in staff, excellent training, development and planned career progression.
Application
We warmly welcome visits which can be arranged by contacting admin@merrylands-pri.essex.sch.uk or by phone 01268 417893.
Please take care to complete the application in full as incomplete applications will not be considered. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early so recommend that you submit your application at your earliest convenience.
The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We may review the internet and social media relating to shortlisted candidates as part of the screening process. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.
We are an equal opportunities employer.
Information about the School
Merrylands Primary School and Nursery has an excellent reputation in the local community. We are one of ten schools that form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background.