Job Description
1 Year fixed term Maternity Cover - with the potential for extension and the possibility of becoming a permanent position.
From Spring 2027, with flexibility for an earlier start date if required
Full Time Teacher (Part Time requests will be considered)
Teachers’ Pay + SEN Allowance
Fordwater School, Summersdale Road, Chichester, PO19 6PP
Closing Date: Monday 19th October 9am
Interviews: Thursday 22nd October 2026
Fordwater School is a highly regarded special school for pupils aged 2–19 with severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and a significant number of learners with complex autism.
We are seeking a passionate, reflective and compassionate Class Teacher to join our team, someone who values connection, creativity and collaborative practice and who is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our young people.
Why Fordwater Is Unique and Why You Will Love Working Here
Fordwater is a values‑led, compassionate community where both staff and pupils are respected, heard and empowered. Staff consistently describe the school as:
A place of shared purpose and collaborative problem‑solving
Psychologically safe, with a strong culture of honest reflection
The opportunity to be creative and innovative within our practice
Commitment to personal and professional growth through the Growth and Development Pathway (GDP)
Visitors frequently comment on
Warm, trusting relationships between staff and pupils
Calm, low‑arousal learning spaces
Rich, personalised communication support
A strong sense of joy and purpose throughout the school day
What is the Growth & Development Pathway (GDP)
We are extremely proud of our innovative Growth & Development Pathway (GDP) a co-produced professional development model built on trust, collaboration and personalised growth. This approach enables teachers to:
Work with a trained facilitator
Set meaningful goals
Receive supportive peer and leader coaching
Grow confidence, capability, and compassion
What We Are Looking For
We welcome both experienced SEND teachers and adaptable mainstream teachers ready to transition into special education.
You will:
Have experience with complex autism or be committed to developing this skill
Bring a warm, attuned and calm approach to supporting regulation and communication
Be creative, flexible and skilled at personalising learning
Value compassionate teamwork and contribute actively to it
Engage enthusiastically in the Growth & Development Pathway
Build strong relationships with pupils, families and multidisciplinary colleagues
Be reflective, curious and committed to continuous improvement
Believe deeply in the potential of every young person
What We Offer
A happy, positive and vibrant working environment
A diverse, inclusive and compassionate school community
A culture of wellbeing and psychological safety
Skilled, supportive colleagues and strong teamwork
Excellent resources and specialist learning environments
Outstanding CPD and coaching opportunities
Leadership that listens, values and champions staff
Opportunities for career progression within a sector‑leading school
Visits Encouraged
We warmly welcome prospective applicants to visit and experience our culture first-hand.
Contact: Aneka Jeffs - HR Manager - HR@fordwatersch.co.uk
Safeguarding Statement
Fordwater School and West Sussex County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service check along with other relevant employment checks, including satisfactory references.
Fordwater is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
The successful candidate must complete an enhanced DBS check and provide two references, including one from their most recent employer.
How to Apply
NOTE TO CANDIDATES - Please do not select the ‘Apply online’ button as the School processes your applications directly rather than through this site.
To apply for this role please click on the Application Attachment links below. Or the Job Description, Person Specification and Application Forms are available on the school website www.fordwatersch.co.uk under Job Vacancies
Please complete the application form and ensure that you outline your motivations for applying and explaining the skills and experience you can bring to the role (please refer to the key skills in the job description).
Once completed, please return the application forms to Aneka Jeffs at HR@fordwatersch.co.uk
Should you have any questions regarding the role or the application please contact the school directly.
Application Attachments:
Shortlisted Candidate Information Form
Teacher Job Description October 2026
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