Thorpe Hall Primary School · London, London
Vacancy: Lead Teacher – SEMH Provision (New Launch)
The Opossum Federation is seeking an
exceptional and resilient UPR teacher to lead the
establishment of a brand-new Social, Emotional, and Mental Health
(SEMH) provision at Thorpe Hall Primary School. This is a pivotal
initiative designed to provide high-quality, specialised support for pupils
with complex SEMH needs. As the founding Lead Teacher, you will oversee
the initial launch and the subsequent expansion of the setting to 10 places.
Role Overview
Workplace:Thorpe Hall Primary School, Walthamstow
(Opossum Federation contract).
Salary: UPR (Outer London) + SEN Allowance
(Maximum Amount).
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time.
Start Date: September 2026.
Key Responsibilities
As the Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for both the
leadership and the daily educational delivery of the provision:
Leadership & Management: Oversee
the successful launch and expansion of the SEMH provision while working closely
with school and federation leaders. Teaching & Curriculum: Plan,
prepare, and teach lessons tailored to complex SEMH needs, utilising
specialised tracking for small-step progress. Target Monitoring: Ensure EHCP
targets are addressed, met, and reviewed. Behavioral Expertise: Model expert
reinforcement of positive behavior and trauma-informed practice, contributing
to school behavioral policies. Collaboration: Act as a bridge
between home and school for parents and liaise with external professionals such
as CAMHS, EPS, and Speech & Language services.
Candidate Requirements
The federation is looking for a dedicated team player who
meets the following criteria:
Qualifications: Qualified Teacher
Status (QTS) is essential. Evidence of further professional development in
SEND/SEMH is desirable. Experience: Relevant teaching
experience in Primary or Early Years settings. Proven experience working
with pupils with SEMH needs is required. Leadership or coordinator
experience is desirable. Knowledge: Comprehensive
understanding of the SEN Code of Practice, EHCP processes, and various
therapeutic interventions. Skills: Ability to plan a
specialized curriculum for mixed ages and abilities, combined with strong
de-escalation skills and a nurturing approach to boundaries.
How to Apply
Application Pack: Download from any
Opossum Federation school website. Submission: Email completed
applications to hr@opossumed.org. Closing Date: Sunday 10 May 2026. Interviews: Week commencing 18 May
2026.
Safeguarding: The Opossum Federation is committed
to safeguarding children. All appointments require an enhanced DBS
clearance, satisfactory references, and a completed self-disclosure form.