Class Teacher

1 Year fixed term Maternity Cover

From Spring 2027, with flexibility for an earlier start date if required

Full Time Teacher (Part Time requests will be considered)
Teachers’ Pay + SEN Allowance

Fordwater School, Summersdale Road, Chichester, PO19 6PP

Closing Date: Thursday 15^th October 2026

Interviews: Thursday 22^nd October 2026

Fordwater School is a highly regarded special school for pupils aged 2–19 with severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and a significant number of learners with complex autism.

We are seeking a passionate, reflective and compassionate Class Teacher to join our team, someone who values connection, creativity and collaborative practice and who is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our young people.

Why Fordwater Is Unique and Why You Will Love Working Here

Fordwater is a values‑led, compassionate community where both staff and pupils are respected, heard and empowered. Staff consistently describe the school as:

• A place of shared purpose and collaborative problem‑solving
• Psychologically safe, with a strong culture of honest reflection
• The opportunity to be creative and innovative within our practice
• Commitment to personal and professional growth through the Growth and Development Pathway (GDP)

Visitors frequently comment on

• Warm, trusting relationships between staff and pupils
• Calm, low‑arousal learning spaces
• Rich, personalised communication support
• A strong sense of joy and purpose throughout the school day

What is the Growth & Development Pathway (GDP)

We are extremely proud of our innovative Growth & Development Pathway (GDP) a co-produced professional development model built on trust, collaboration and personalised growth. This approach enables teachers to:

• Work with a trained facilitator
• Set meaningful goals
• Receive supportive peer and leader coaching
• Grow confidence, capability, and compassion

What We Are Looking For

We welcome both experienced SEND teachers and adaptable mainstream teachers ready to transition into special education.

You will:

• Have experience with complex autism or be committed to developing this skill
• Bring a warm, attuned and calm approach to supporting regulation and communication
• Be creative, flexible and skilled at personalising learning
• Value compassionate teamwork and contribute actively to it
• Engage enthusiastically in the Growth & Development Pathway
• Build strong relationships with pupils, families and multidisciplinary colleagues
• Be reflective, curious and committed to continuous improvement
• Believe deeply in the potential of every young person

What We Offer

• A happy, positive and vibrant working environment
• A diverse, inclusive and compassionate school community
• A culture of wellbeing and psychological safety
• Skilled, supportive colleagues and strong teamwork
• Excellent resources and specialist learning environments
• Outstanding CPD and coaching opportunities
• Leadership that listens, values and champions staff
• Opportunities for career progression within a sector‑leading school

Safeguarding

Fordwater is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
The successful candidate must complete an enhanced DBS check and provide two references, including one from their most recent employer.

Visits Encouraged

We warmly welcome prospective applicants to visit and experience our culture first-hand.

Contact: Aneka Jeffs - HR Manager - HR@fordwatersch.co.uk

How to Apply

Job Description, Person Specification and Application Forms are available at the bottom of this web page.

Downloads

Class Teacher - Person Specification

Class Teacher - Job Description

Class Teacher - Job Application Form

Shortlisted Candidate Information Form