SEN Teacher – Durham (1-Year Maternity Cover)

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teacher to join a highly regarded specialist SEND school in Durham on a 1-year maternity cover contract starting in September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate practitioner who is committed to supporting children and young people with a range of complex learning needs and helping them achieve their full potential.

The school caters for pupils aged 2–19 with a variety of special educational needs, including autism, moderate learning difficulties (MLD), severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), and complex additional needs. All pupils have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and benefit from highly personalised learning pathways designed to support their academic, social, emotional, and independence skills.

As an SEN Teacher, you will join a skilled and supportive team within a purpose-built specialist setting that offers excellent facilities, including sensory spaces, therapeutic environments, specialist learning areas, and a strong focus on preparing pupils for adulthood and future independence. The school is recognised for its nurturing approach, high staff-to-pupil ratios, and commitment to ensuring every pupil receives the support they need to succeed.

This 1-year maternity cover position, running from September 2026 to July 2027, offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience within a well-established specialist setting while making a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people with additional needs. ECTs are warmly encouraged to apply and will benefit from working alongside an experienced and supportive team committed to professional development and mentoring.

Key Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging, differentiated lessons tailored to pupils with a range of SEND needs.
Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment where all pupils can thrive.
Adapt teaching approaches, resources, and assessment methods to meet individual learning needs.
Work collaboratively with teaching assistants, therapists, SENCOs, families, and external agencies.
Support pupils' communication, emotional wellbeing, social development, and independence.
Assess, monitor, and track pupil progress, using assessment to inform planning and intervention.
Contribute to EHCP reviews, annual reviews, reports, and target setting.
Promote positive behaviour and support pupils using appropriate communication and behaviour strategies.
Ensure safeguarding procedures and school policies are followed at all times.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or be due to achieve QTS before September 2026.
ECTs and experienced teachers are welcome to apply.
A passion for supporting children and young people with special educational needs.
A strong understanding of inclusive teaching practices and differentiated learning.
Excellent communication, organisation, and classroom management skills.
A patient, adaptable, and child-centred approach to teaching.
The ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

This role would suit a passionate SEN Teacher who is eager to make a meaningful difference within a specialist setting. Whether you are an ECT looking to begin your teaching career in a highly supportive SEND environment or an experienced SEN Teacher seeking a rewarding new opportunity, this role offers the chance to work within a well-resourced school with a strong reputation for supporting pupils with complex needs throughout a 1-year maternity cover contract from September 2026 to July 2027.

Why Work with Education World?

REC Audited Education Status – Recognised for the highest recruitment standards
Weekly Pay – Paid every Friday, always on time
PAYE Only – No umbrella companies or hidden fees
Free CPD Opportunities – Access to professional development
Rated 4.9 on Trustpilot – Trusted by hundreds of education professionals
Dedicated Consultants – Local knowledge and ongoing support
Candidate-First Approach – Your availability, preferences, and wellbeing always come first
Referral Bonus – Recommend a friend and earn uncapped rewards (T&Cs apply)

Safeguarding & Equal Opportunities

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and candidates to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks in line with regulatory requirements and the REC Code of Professional Practice.

Education World is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.