Pre formal teacher Job at Pluckley Full Time

We work smarter so that you can enjoy the things that matter outside of workJob Title: Pre Formal TeacherLocation: Heath Farm School, Ashford, Kent, TN27 0 AXHours: 35 hours per week | Monday to FridaySalary: Up to £40,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)Contract: Fixed term – March 2027 | Term Time OnlyStart: September 2026UK applicants only no sponsorship availableAbout the RoleAre you passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD)? Do you believe that progress should be measured in confidence, communication, engagement and independence as much as academic achievement?At Heath Farm School, we’re looking for a compassionate and creative Pre-Formal Teacher to join our dedicated team and help pupils access the world around them through personalised, sensory-rich learning experiences.This is a truly rewarding role where you’ll work with pupils who require a highly individualised approach to education. Rather than focusing on traditional age-related academic outcomes, you’ll support the development of foundational skills that enable pupils to communicate, connect, regulate emotions and engage with the world in meaningful ways.Working closely with therapists, support staff and families, you’ll create nurturing learning environments that celebrate every achievement and unlock every child’s potential.Key ResponsibilitiesDelivering highly personalised, pre-formal learning programmes tailored to individual pupil needsSupporting the development of early communication, interaction and engagement skillsUsing multi-sensory approaches including sight, sound, touch, movement and play to promote learningWorking closely with speech and language therapists, physiotherapists and other professionals to integrate therapeutic approaches into everyday learningSupporting therapy-integrated learning programmes such as hydrotherapy, sensory regulation activities and massage storiesDeveloping pupils’ communication skills through strategies such as visual supports, now/next boards, symbols and intensive interactionBuilding routines, trust, emotional regulation and sustained attention through consistent, nurturing practiceMonitoring and celebrating progress in small but significant developmental milestonesCreating a safe, calm and stimulating environment where pupils feel secure, valued and ready to learnWorking collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for every childAbout YouWe’re looking for someone who is:Qualified with QTS or equivalentPassionate about supporting pupils with PMLD, complex needs and diverse learning profilesExperienced in, or enthusiastic about,pre-formal and sensory-based learning approachesCreative, patient and able to adapt learning to individual needsSkilled at building trusting relationships and supporting communication developmentComfortable working alongside therapists and implementing therapeutic strategiesCommitted to inclusive, child-centred practiceA collaborative team player with a positive and nurturing approachIn possession of afull UK driving licenceThis version should attract candidates specifically interested in PMLD and pre-formal education, while clearly differentiating the role from a traditional Primary Teacher position.About UsHeath Farm is an independent SEN school that offers a unique and stimulating environment where every pupil can make outstanding progress in their personal development and enjoy success in their education. From our nurturing approach for primary pupils through to the relaxed working environment of the specialist College Provision, all students are encouraged to reach high standards in every aspect of their lives.Our pupils present with a wide range of needs, including social and emotional issues, learning difficulties, mental health problems and associated conditions. However, they are able to enjoy extraordinary outcomes and be happy at school.Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young peoples lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.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 AssurancePension scheme with options to increase contributionsYour Wellbeing Matters mental health support and physical health checksFlexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:Health, wellbeing and insurance benefitsHundreds of UK and international discountsCycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase SchemeCritical illness coverFamily Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment supportWe 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.#1TPBN1_UKTJ