Engagement for Emergent Learners Lead Teacher

What skills and experience we're looking for

Oak Lodge School is seeking a compassionate, skilled and innovative Lead Teacher for Engagement for Emergent Learners to champion outstanding provision for students with the most complex learning needs, including those with multiple disabilities, profound communication needs and highly individual sensory profiles. In this pivotal middle‑leadership role, you will design and lead highly personalised, sensory‑based learning pathways, create engaging and therapeutic learning environments, and work closely with a multidisciplinary team—therapists, specialist teachers, and support staff—to embed communication‑focused, holistic approaches that help our learners thrive.

You will be the driving force behind specialist curriculum development, alternative assessment methods, AAC‑focused practice, and staff coaching, ensuring colleagues feel confident and skilled in adapting teaching for our most complex learners.

What the school offers its staff

With one dedicated leadership day each week, a supportive senior leadership team, and the ongoing assistance of a dedicated HLTA, you will have the time and support needed to shape exceptional practice across the school. Your work will directly support students’ communication, engagement, emotional regulation and progression towards meaningful adult lives.

Oak Lodge offers a warm, therapeutic, person‑centred environment with small class sizes, high staffing ratios, excellent SEND‑focused CPD, and a strong culture of collaboration and wellbeing. This is an ideal role for an experienced SEND practitioner who is passionate about complex needs education and ready to take the next step into middle leadership within a values‑led, forward‑thinking Trust.

Commitment to safeguarding

Barnet Special Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Offer of a position is subject to receiving satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS Clearance. An online search will be undertaken on all shortlisted candidates. This search does not form part of the shortlisting process and you will have the opportunity to discuss any issues of concern that may arise from this search at the interview.