Job Description
Complex Needs Teacher (MLD/SLD) – Holly Pathway
Salary: MPS/UPS
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Location: Witham
Please note: The school operates across two sites (Witham and Great Baddow); flexibility to work across both may be required.
Purpose of the Role
The Complex Needs Teacher within the Holly Pathway delivers high-quality, personalised learning for pupils working within informal and semi-formal stages. Pupils present with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), autism, communication differences, sensory processing needs, and complex learning profiles.
This role requires a strong understanding of sensory-based, relational, and trauma-informed practice. The teacher will create a safe, predictable and nurturing environment where pupils develop regulation, communication, independence and engagement, progressing at a pace aligned with their individual developmental needs.
The Holly Pathway prioritises:
Emotional regulation
Functional communication
Independence and life skills
Sensory-informed teaching
Predictable routines
Repetition, overlearning and generalisation
Key Responsibilities
1. Teaching, Learning & Curriculum
Plan and deliver personalised learning aligned to the Holly Pathway approach.
Use sensory, play-based and structured teaching methods matched to pupil readiness.
Deliver learning across informal and semi-formal stages.
Create predictable routines using visual supports and sensory strategies.
Embed EHCP outcomes, therapy and communication targets into daily practice.
Support development of communication, regulation, independence and early cognition.
2. Communication
Implement a total communication approach (AAC, Makaton, symbols, gesture, objects of reference).
Work closely with Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT).
Recognise and support Natural Language Acquisition (NLA).
Ensure all pupils can express needs, preferences and emotions.
3. Sensory & Regulation
Use trauma-informed, low-arousal and relational approaches.
Embed sensory regulation strategies and planned breaks.
Support co-regulation and emotional development.
Implement sensory plans alongside Occupational Therapy (OT).
4. Assessment & Progress
Assess holistically using observation and developmental frameworks.
Track progress in regulation, communication, engagement, independence and participation.
Evidence learning through records, photos and observations.
Contribute to EHCP reviews and multi-agency meetings.
5. Behaviour & Relationships
Build safe, trusting relationships to support engagement.
Use relational and co-regulation approaches rather than compliance-based methods.
Contribute to behaviour and risk planning.
Promote early social interaction and play skills.
6. Leadership
Lead and support Teaching Assistants and intervention staff.
Model best practice in sensory and relational approaches.
Ensure consistency in routines, communication and regulation strategies.
Provide clear guidance, coaching and feedback.
7. Safeguarding & Professional Practice
Follow safeguarding procedures at all times.
Maintain accurate and confidential records.
Engage in CPD, supervision and reflective practice.
Contribute to whole-school development and ethos.
Person Specification
Essential
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Experience with SLD, ASD or complex needs
Knowledge of sensory processing, trauma-informed practice and communication approaches
Ability to create structured, low-arousal learning environments
Calm, patient and reflective approach
Desirable
Experience with AAC, Makaton, NLA, sensory integration
Background in special or therapeutic education settings
Training in approaches such as Thrive, Attention Autism or TEACCH
All applicants will be contacted to discuss suitability and then invited to register with TeacherActive.
Registration involves an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and will require you to supply good professional references. We pride ourselves on excellent service. We can provide a wide range of opportunities in schools and other educational institutions, with good rates of pay, at times to suit your needs.
Regular external audits have shown repeatedly that our standards are exceptional. We are passionate about finding the right staff for each environment.
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