Class Teacher - Ks2 (Primary Curriculum) - Full-time

The Orchard School, Canterbury

• Ref:KCC886-7062-277T
• Posted:30/03/2026
• Pay:MPS + SEN Allowance - STPCD applies
• Start Date:September 2026
• App Close Date:29/04/2026 at 23:45
• Interviews:Wednesday 6th May 2026

Advert

At The Orchard School, we do things differently. 

We are not just looking for a teacher. 

We are looking for someone who believes in children, even when they struggle to believe in themselves. 

This is a role for someone who understands that behaviour is communication, that relationships come first, and that every moment is an opportunity to build trust, belonging and aspiration. 

About the Role 

We are seeking a Key Stage 2 Class Teacher to join our therapeutic, inclusive SEMH school. 

You will teach a primary curriculum to pupils who need something different from education. Our pupils bring energy, complexity, humour and challenge in equal measure. They need adults who are calm, consistent and committed. 

At The Orchard School: 

• Relationships are held consistently by adults who know pupils best, creating a safe and predictable environment where pupils are ready to learn 

• Classrooms are the centre of safety, learning and belonging 

What Makes Us Different 

Our work is guided by The Orchard Way: 

• Trust – We build safe, reliable relationships 

• Belonging – Every child has a place here 

• Aspiration – We help pupils believe in their future 

• Voice – Every pupil is heard and valued 

• Pride – We celebrate effort and progress 

• Curiosity – We seek to understand, not judge 

Everything we do is underpinned by our simple and consistent expectations: 

Ready-Respectful-Safe 

These are not just rules. They are lived, modelled and taught every day by adults. 

What You Will Do 

• Deliver a broad and engaging primary curriculum adapted to meet SEMH needs 

• Create a classroom where pupils feel safe, understood and ready to learn 

• Use Therapeutic Thinking approaches to respond to behaviour 

• Build strong, consistent relationships with pupils and families 

• Work as part of a committed team where everyone matters and everyone cares 

Who We Are Looking For 

You may be: 

• An experienced teacher 

• An ECT ready for a meaningful and supported start 

• A practitioner looking to move into SEMH 

What matters most is that you: 

• Believe in relational practice 

• Can lead others through clarity, consistency and example 

• Stay calm and consistent under pressure 

• See potential, not just presentation 

• Are ready to grow, reflect and learn 

Why Join The Orchard School 

• A clear and values-driven approach to behaviour and relationships 

• A strong team culture built on trust and support 

• Opportunities for professional development and coaching 

• The chance to make a genuine, lasting difference every day 

This is not the easiest job in education. But it may be the most important. 

If you want to be part of a school where everyone matters and everyone cares, we would love to hear from you. 

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged. We would be pleased to show you our school in action and share more about The Orchard Way. 

Information about the school

The Orchard School is a cross-phase special school for primary and secondary-aged pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, often alongside associated learning difficulties.

We are proud to be a Therapeutic Thinking and Inclusive school community, guided by The Orchard Way, where relationships come first, behaviour is understood as communication, and every pupil is supported to grow and thrive.

At The Orchard School, Everyone Matters, Everyone Cares. Our Mission, Vision and Values are at the heart of everything we do-shaping our approach to learning, support and personal development. We are committed to nurturing pupils’ social, emotional and mental health through trust, belonging, aspiration, voice, pride and curiosity.

Our pupils come from across East Kent and beyond. They are supported by a dedicated team who work closely with families, professionals and each other to ensure every learner feels safe, valued and empowered to succeed.

We are on an exciting journey of continuous improvement. Join us as we grow together-through compassion, clarity and purpose.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Cherith Stibbe
• Address:Cambridge Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3QQ
• Telephone: 01227 769220
• Email: cstibbe@orchard.kent.sch.uk

Fax: 01227 781589