Year 8 Class Teacher – SEMH Setting (MAT Cover)
East Sussex | 12-month Fixed-Term Contract | Start Jan/Feb
Teaching Personnel are working with a specialist SEMH school in East Sussex that supports both primary and secondary pupils who require a more therapeutic, relational approach to education.
The school is seeking a Year 8 Class Teacher to provide maternity cover from late January / February on a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a full-time teaching role within a setting where behaviour can be challenging, but where strong relationships, consistency and emotional intelligence make a genuine difference.
This role would suit a teacher who is confident, calm under pressure, and motivated by supporting pupils who may not thrive in mainstream environments.
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About the Role
As the Year 8 Class Teacher, you will:
* Take responsibility for a small, well-supported Year 8 class
* Deliver engaging, accessible lessons adapted to pupils’ emotional and learning needs
* Create a structured, predictable classroom environment that supports regulation and learning
* Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils who may present with challenging behaviour
* Work closely with support staff, pastoral teams and leadership to maintain consistency
* Support pupils academically while also recognising the importance of emotional wellbeing
This is a hands-on role where flexibility, patience and strong classroom presence are essential.
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Who This Role Will Suit
You do not need to be a SEMH specialist — but you do need the right mindset.
This role would suit someone who:
* Is confident teaching Key Stage 3, particularly Year 8
* Can remain calm, clear and consistent in challenging situations
* Understands that behaviour is often a form of communication
* Is adaptable and able to adjust teaching approaches when needed
* Values teamwork and reflective practice
* Is ready to step into a role where relationships come before results
Experience within SEMH or alternative provision is desirable but not essential. Strong mainstream teachers with the right attitude and presence are encouraged to apply.
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What the School Offers
* A supportive, experienced staff team
* Clear behaviour systems and strong pastoral structures
* Ongoing guidance and support throughout the MAT cover
* Leadership that prioritises staff wellbeing and consistency
* A setting where progress is measured in confidence, trust and engagement as well as attainment
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Additional Information
* Applicants should hold QTS or be working towards it
* A Child-only DBS on the Update Service is preferred, or willingness to apply
* Start date: End of January / February
* Contract: 12-month fixed-term (MAT cover)
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Apply Today
If you are a resilient, reflective teacher looking for a meaningful role where your presence and consistency truly matter, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to be considered for this Year 8 Class Teacher position within a specialist SEMH setting in East Sussex.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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