Science Teacher (Preston Site - Walney House)

Walney  is a small, specialist 20-place school supporting children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

We provide a calm, nurturing and highly personalised learning environment in which pupils can rebuild confidence, develop positive relationships and achieve meaningful academic and personal progress. Our small classes allow staff to understand each pupil’s individual strengths, needs and aspirations.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, adaptable and compassionate Science Teacher to plan and deliver engaging science lessons suited to pupils with a range of abilities and additional needs.

The successful candidate will combine secure subject knowledge with a patient, relational and trauma-informed approach. They will create practical and accessible learning experiences, maintain high expectations and help pupils develop curiosity, confidence and a positive attitude towards science.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality science lessons across [Key Stages/age range] .

• Adapt teaching, resources and assessment to meet pupils’ individual needs, EHCP outcomes and starting points.

• Teach biology, chemistry and physics through engaging, practical and relevant learning activities.

• Create a safe, structured and supportive classroom environment.

• Use appropriate strategies to support pupils with SEMH needs, autism, communication differences and sensory needs.

• Build trusting and professional relationships with pupils while maintaining clear and consistent boundaries.

• Promote emotional regulation, resilience, independence and positive behaviour.

• Assess, record and report pupils’ attainment and progress.

• Contribute to individual education plans, behaviour support plans and annual EHCP reviews where required.

• Maintain a safe science learning environment and complete appropriate risk assessments for practical activities.

• Ensure that equipment, chemicals and resources are stored and used safely.

• Work closely with teaching assistants, therapists, pastoral staff, families and external professionals.

• Contribute to curriculum development and the wider life of the school.

• Attend relevant meetings, training and professional-development activities.

• Follow all school policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, behaviour and equality policies.

• Undertake other reasonable duties appropriate to the role.

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified Teacher Status, a relevant teaching qualification or substantial relevant teaching experience.

• Strong knowledge of science and the ability to teach across the required age and ability range.

• Ability to plan creative, practical and differentiated lessons.

• A calm, patient and consistent approach.

• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils who may have experienced barriers to education.

• Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.

• Strong communication, organisation and teamwork skills.

• Commitment to inclusion and to improving outcomes for pupils with additional needs.

• Willingness to undertake relevant training and continuing professional development.

Desirable

• Experience of teaching pupils with SEMH needs and/or autism.

• Experience in a special school, alternative provision or other specialist setting.

• Knowledge of EHCPs and personalised learning programmes.

• Understanding of trauma-informed, restorative and positive-behaviour approaches.

• Training in autism, mental health, de-escalation, first aid or safe handling of science equipment.

• Experience of teaching accredited science courses such as Entry Level, Functional Skills or GCSE.

We Offer

• Small classes and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

• A supportive and collaborative staff team.

• A welcoming specialist environment with a strong focus on wellbeing.

• Relevant training and opportunities for professional development.

• A personalised approach that values creativity, flexibility and staff expertise.

• Working hours of 9:00am–3:00pm.

Safeguarding

Walney House  is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be required to complete all appropriate safer-recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, identity and right-to-work checks, and any other checks required for the role.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds.