Job Description
SEN Teacher – EYFS
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Hours: Full time
Location: Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9BG.
Welcome to Conifers House School
At Conifers House School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. We are a therapeutic, inclusive school supporting children aged 5–16 with complex learning needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), and a wide range of associated difficulties.
We are looking for a nurturing and knowledgeable SEN Teacher to lead our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) class. This role supports pupils at the earliest stages of learning, helping them build the foundations for communication, regulation, social interaction, and curiosity. You will create a safe, sensory-rich environment that prepares children to transition into structured education at their own pace.
Job Purpose
To deliver highly personalised, play-based and sensory-focused teaching for pupils in the EYFS with complex SEND. The role supports early engagement, emotional development, and foundational communication and cognition.
Our Curriculum Approach
EYFS pupils at Conifers follow a developmental model of education aligned with the Early Years Framework and adapted to meet individual needs. Provision is designed to:
* Support sensory regulation, co-regulation and attention
* Build early communication through AAC, PECS, Intensive Interaction and Makaton
* Encourage play, curiosity, and early social interaction
* Introduce basic routines and shared engagement to prepare for formal learning
Curriculum delivery is supported by:
* Integrated therapeutic practice (SaLT, OT, Play Therapy)
* Key frameworks such as Zones of Regulation and Attention Autism
* Total communication environments and visual supports
* Adaptive planning and progress tracking using B-Squared assessment frameworks and other recognised tools
Key Responsibilities
Planning, Teaching and Class Management
* Create a calm, consistent and nurturing learning environment using a therapeutic, play-based model
* Plan and deliver individual and group activities across all EYFS areas of learning, adapted to pupils with SEND
* Embed communication and sensory regulation strategies into all sessions
* Develop early literacy, numeracy and topic engagement through multi-sensory experiences
* Foster relationships through co-regulation, shared attention and play-based interaction
* Work in close partnership with support staff and therapists to deliver consistent routines and support
Assessment, Recording and Reporting
* Track progress using B-Squared and other approved assessment tools aligned to EHCP and Early Learning Goals
* Record observations and maintain developmental profiles of learning and engagement
* Provide regular updates for families and contribute to Annual Reviews
* Adapt provision based on assessment outcomes and therapeutic feedback
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
* Follow Conifers House’s safeguarding policies and procedures at all times
* Ensure the safety and welfare of all children, particularly in relation to personal care, communication, and supervision
* Contribute to behaviour plans, individual risk assessments, and family communication
* Monitor wellbeing and engagement, and escalate any concerns appropriately Professional Responsibilities
* Understand and implement the SEND Code of Practice and EYFS statutory guidance
* Work collaboratively with therapists, TA/HLTAs and senior staff to deliver holistic provision
* Engage in CPD and reflective practice related to early development and SEND education
* Promote The Conifers House Way in all aspects of your teaching and professional interactions
* Support transitions into EYFS and from EYFS to more structured educational settings
This job description may be amended at any time following discussion with the postholder and will be reviewed annually.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Conifers House School, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.