KS2 / 3 Transition Teacher & Designated Teacher for Looked After Children

We are seeking to appoint a dynamic, confident and aspirational teacher to this pivotal and highly influential role at Hanley Castle High School. The KS2/3 teacher plays a vital role in ensuring that all students access learning, achieve their potential, and feel valued within our inclusive school environment. Primarily teaching English and mathematics to pupils in Years 7 and 8 who are not yet secondary-ready, the role requires a strong belief in high expectations for all pupils, alongside a clear understanding that students with SEND may require tailored support, reasonable adjustments, and adaptive approaches to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. The role also includes statutory responsibility as the school's Designated Teacher for Looked After and Previously Looked After Children, promoting the educational achievement, wellbeing and inclusion of pupils in care through close collaboration with families, colleagues and external professionals.

Whether you are an experienced primary school teacher looking to develop your career in a secondary setting, or a secondary trained teacher, this role is suited to an ambitious teacher with strong inclusive values, secure classroom practice and a desire to develop their leadership journey within SEND and pupil wellbeing. The successful candidate will be reflective in their practice, committed to continually developing their inclusive pedagogy, able to build trusting and respectful relationships with vulnerable pupils, and work collaboratively with the Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo), staff, parents, carers and external agencies. Previous experience as a Designated Teacher for Looked After Children is not essential; however, candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of the statutory responsibilities and a real commitment to championing the achievement of looked after and previously looked after children.

Hanley Castle is a dynamic and pleasantly situated high performing Academy, which is justifiably proud of its local and national reputation for academic excellence. Founded in 1326, the school provides a unique blend of academic rigour, modern facilities and traditional values. The school is heavily oversubscribed and our Sixth Form is flourishing. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure & Barring Service. Online searches are now undertaken on all shortlisted candidates, for safeguarding suitability, as part of the due diligence. References are obtained, before interview wherever possible, which include specific enquiries about the applicant's background in relation to safeguarding.

Hours and Terms: Full-time, Permanent Salary: Main Scale to Upper Pay Scale+ TLR 2.3 £3527 per annum. The TLR is awarded for taking on the role of designated teacher for Looked After Children. Start date: 1 September 2026, with the opportunity to start earlier should the successful candidate be available. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a highly successful, hard-working and friendly faculty whose work, professional development and well-being is greatly valued and supported by the Senior Leadership Team.,

• Teachers' Pension Scheme
• Centralised behaviour system
• Access to a cycle to work scheme
• Free on-site parking
• Free access to Westfield Health, Healthy Extras providing:
• 24/7 telephone access to a practising UK GP
• 24 Hour Advice & Information Line (including structured counselling sessions)
• Eldercare Advice
• Discounts and offers at hundreds of retailers, restaurants and destinations
• Gym discounts
Further details