Acorn Care and Education • Guildford
About this role
We put wellbeing first by giving our teams more time to recharge
Job Title
SEN Teacher
Location
Castle Gate School, Guildford, Surrey GU2 4DU
Hours
40 hours per week | Monday–Friday | 8am - 4pm
Salary
Up to £45,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Contract
Permanent | Term Time Only
Start
September 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
About the Role
Options Autism is proud to be opening Castle Gate School in Guildford, a specialist provision for pupils with autism, learning difficulties, and complex needs. We are seeking a committed and skilled SEN Teacher to join the school from its inception and contribute to shaping this exciting new provision.
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a start-up school, working in an environment where high-quality teaching, consistency, and compassionate practice are central to everything we do.
As an SEN Teacher, you will design and deliver personalised, engaging learning experiences tailored to the individual needs of pupils. Working collaboratively with teaching assistants, therapists, families, and external professionals, you will contribute to a holistic approach that supports pupils’ academic progress, emotional wellbeing, and personal development.
You will also play a key role in establishing the school’s culture, routines, and expectations, helping to create a nurturing, inclusive environment built on safety, respect, and consistency.
What you will be doing
Plan, deliver, and assess differentiated lessons that meet individual learning needs
Create a structured and inclusive classroom environment that promotes engagement and positive behaviour
Monitor and record pupil progress, supporting both academic and personal development
Work collaboratively with colleagues, families, and external professionals
Contribute to the development of a positive school culture and consistent routines
Uphold high standards of safeguarding, wellbeing, and professional practice
What you will bring
QTS or equivalent required
Educated to degree level
Experience working with pupils with autism and/or complex needs
Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach
Commitment to inclusive education and safeguarding
At Castle Gate School, you will be part of a supportive and dedicated team where professional expertise, innovation, and reflective practice are valued. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in pupils’ lives while helping shape a new specialist school from the ground up.
About Us
Opening in September 2026, this brand-new school in Guildford is part of the Options Autism group, a leading provider of specialist education individuals with complex needs. The school will support up to 40 pupils aged 11–18, offering a safe, structured, and inclusive environment tailored to meet a wide range of needs.
Our schools are unique environments, each one having its own special atmosphere and range of opportunities and resources. Our teachers enjoy becoming part of their school’s ‘family’, exploring the potential of the building and environment and getting to know the brilliant pupils in our care.
For over 19 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
“Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including
Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
Hundreds of UK and international discounts
Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
#1