Job Description

Job Title: Art Teacher (Long Term Contract)
Location: Essex
Contract Type: Long-term (term-time only)
Hours: Full time, Monday to Friday
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Dependent on experience & qualifications (250 - 275)
About the Setting
We are working with a specialist independent school based in Epping, supporting young people aged 11-18 with autism and associated needs. The school provides a tailored curriculum, small class sizes (maximum 7 students per class), and a nurturing, therapeutic approach to learning.
Students follow a broad and balanced programme, including academic, creative, and life skills pathways, with access to therapies and enrichment activities designed to support their personal development and independence.
Role Overview
We're seeking a passionate and creative Art Teacher to join this dedicated team on a long-term basis. This is an exciting opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of students with additional needs, teaching across Key Stages 3, 4 and potentially Post-16.
You'll plan and deliver engaging, differentiated lessons that inspire creativity and confidence, using a range of media and artistic techniques. Collaboration with specialist staff (including therapists and teaching assistants) is key to ensuring students thrive both academically and emotionally.
Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver Art lessons tailored to individual learning needs.
• Inspire and support students to explore different art forms and creative expression.
• Assess and record progress, adapting plans accordingly.
• Promote engagement, positive behaviour, and inclusion within the classroom.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to integrate Art into wider learning opportunities.
• Contribute to enrichment activities, displays, and exhibitions.

Requirements
Essential:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
• Experience teaching Art at secondary level (GCSE or equivalent)
• Strong classroom and behaviour management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• A genuine passion for supporting neurodiverse learners
• Must hold a Child & Adult DBS (on the Update Service or willing to obtain one)
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting student welfare

Desirable:

• Experience within a SEND / SEMH / autism-specific setting
• Familiarity with BTEC, GCSE or Entry Level Art pathways
• Knowledge of therapeutic or sensory teaching approaches
• Experience using digital art or assistive technologies in the classroom

Benefits

• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Small class sizes with strong pastoral and therapeutic support
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• Access to wellbeing and mental health support
• Term-time working pattern with school holidays off
• Chance to make a real impact in a specialist educational setting

Skills Required