Job Description

Job Tilte
Teacher for Pupils with Severe

Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

Post 16

Grade
Main scale 1 - 6

Reports to
Headteacher

Liaison with
Senior Leadership Team, Teachers, Learning Support Assistants, Therapists (Speech & Language, Occupational and Physiotherapy), School Nurse, Parents/Carers, Social Care Professionals, Essex County Council Services and External Agencies.

Application close date
22 June 2026

Interview Date
29 June 2026

Job Purpose

To plan, deliver and evaluate high-quality, sensory rich, personalised learning opportunities for pupils with Severe

Learning Difficulties (SLD) and profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), ensuring that every pupil is supported through adaptive teaching approaches. The postholder will promote pupils' communication, independence, wellbeing and engagement within a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment.

Key Responsibilities
Teaching and Learning:

· Create a positive, stimulating and inclusive learning environment.

· Plan and deliver engaging, individualised learning programmes that meet the complex needs of pupils with SLD/PMLD.

· Use a range of communication approaches, including AAC, sensory and interactive learning strategies.

· Monitor, assess and record pupil progress against EHCP outcomes and school assessment frameworks.

Pupil Support:

· Promote pupils' communication, physical development, independence and emotional wellbeing.

· Work closely with therapists and other professionals to implement specialist programmes and interventions.

· Ensure pupils' personal care, medical and moving and handling needs are met in line with school procedures.

Partnership Working

· Work collaboratively with parents/carers strengthening family partnerships to support pupil progress and wellbeing.

· To support the transition from college to adult services

· Maintain regular communication with parents/carers through home-school communication systems and meetings.

· Liaise effectively with external agencies and multidisciplinary teams.

· Plan and support educational visits, enrichment activities and whole-school events.

· Lead the class team with a focus on creativity, curiosity and communication and direct Learning Support Assistants within the classroom.

· Safeguarding and Compliance: maintain high standards of safeguarding, health and safety and pupil welfare.

· Contribute to Annual Reviews, reports and professional meetings.

· Support the school's commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

General

· Participate in training, professional development and school improvement activities.

· Undertake other duties, supervisory duties and provide reasonable cover for colleagues when required.

Person Specification:

Qualifications

Essential

· Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

· Degree or recognised teaching qualification.

Desirable

· SEND qualification or specialist training in PMLD, Complex Needs or Autism.

Experience

Essential

· Experience of teaching pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

· Experience of planning, assessing and delivering personalised learning programmes.

Desirable

· Experience of teaching pupils with PMLD, complex medical needs or severe learning difficulties.

· Experience of working within a multidisciplinary team.

Knowledge & Skills
Essential

· Understanding of the educational, communication and developmental needs of pupils with PMLD.

· Knowledge of EHCPs, safeguarding and inclusive teaching practices.

· Strong communication, organisational and teamwork skills.

· Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, families and professionals.

Desirable

· Knowledge of AAC, sensory curriculum approaches and intensive interaction.

· Understanding of therapeutic and person-centred approaches.

Personal Qualities
Essential

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

· Patience, empathy and resilience.

· Positive, flexible and solution-focused approach.

· Commitment to inclusion and achieving the best outcomes for pupils with complex needs.

Information about the School

Harlow Fields School and College is an all age special school for pupils with severe, moderate and complex needs. We are an inclusive, vibrant learning environment offering high quality education and care for all.