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Work for Us

Why work for us?

Our pupils thrive in a mature, supportive, purposeful and happy environment. They benefit immensely from working with our trained, talented and dedicated Class Teachers and support staff, and from participating in a wide range of exciting and inspiring extra-curricular activities. As a result they make excellent progress but also grow into wonderful young adults.

By joining Ellen Tinkham School, you can expect:

  • High quality, bespoke Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
  • Career Progression
  • Local Government Pension Scheme
  • An excellent employee assistance programme which includes physiotherapy, counselling, wellbeing and access to private healthcare if applicable
  • Staff discounts
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • A wide range of staff training and development opportunities, including work based teacher training


If you are interested in any of the roles detailed below, please complete an Application form and email this to recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk

Current Vacancies

TEACHERS BASED AT ELLEN TINKHAM COLLEGE, EX1 3LF
Are you an enthusiastic and dedicated teacher looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with Special Educational Needs? We are seeking three passionate and high-quality teachers to join our College, working with students aged 11-16 years with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD).  We have three roles available - one full time permanent, one full time fixed term and one part-time fixed term.

As a teacher at our special school, you will:

  • Deliver engaging and personalised lessons following a primary-based curriculum tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students;
  • Foster a positive, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment that supports both academic and personal development;
  • Work collaboratively with a strong team of professionals, including teaching assistants and therapists, to ensure holistic support for all students;
  • You will lead a team of Teaching Assistants;
  • Use innovative and creative approaches to teaching that inspire confidence and enthusiasm in learners;
  • Be adaptable and proactive in addressing the individual learning needs of each child.

We’re looking for:

  • A qualified teacher with QTS (or equivalent) and experience, or an active interest, in working with young people with SLD/PMLD;
  • A positive and energetic approach to teaching and learning;
  • A commitment to providing high-quality teaching and achieving the best outcomes for students;
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary setting;
  • A reflective and flexible approach to continuous professional development.

In return, we can offer:

  • A supportive and experienced leadership team committed to staff well-being and professional growth;
  • High-quality CPD opportunities and a comprehensive induction programme;
  • An SEN1 annual allowance of £2,679.00 (pro-rata for part-time staff);
  • Access to Education Mutual for staff well-being support;
  • A collaborative and supportive peer network as part of a federation of schools;
  • An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with complex learning needs.

If you are passionate about special education and excited by the opportunity to work in a dynamic and rewarding environment, we would love to hear from you!  Please see the relevant Job Description and Application Form below.  We do not accept CV's.  Please send completed application forms to: recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk   
Closing date for applications: by 5 pm on Monday 31st March 2025
Interviews will be held on: Wednesday 23rd April 2025

For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact the HR team on 01392 467168.  We welcome applications from those who are new to the profession.  This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.

HIGHER LEVEL TEACHING ASSISTANT (HLTA) BASED AT ELLEN TINKHAM SCHOOL, EX1 3RW
As an HLTA, you will play a key role in supporting students across our primary school site with a wide range of special educational needs, from communication and interaction challenges to physical disabilities. Your main responsibilities will include:

  • Delivering lessons: Under the guidance of the class teacher, you will plan and deliver engaging lessons that are tailored to the individual needs of our students;
  • Providing tailored support: Work closely with students on a 1:1 or small group basis, using specialist techniques to support learning and development;
  • Collaboration: You will work alongside the teaching team to adapt the curriculum and create an enriching learning environment that celebrates diversity and supports progress. We believe in working together to ensure that no child is excluded from achieving their full potential;
  • Fostering independence: Empower students to become more independent and confident in their learning, developing their skills and abilities to their fullest potential;
  • Monitoring progress: Help track students’ progress and contribute to regular assessments to ensure every child reaches their goals.

What we’re looking for:

  • Experience: Experience working with children with special educational needs, ideally in a school setting. Experience of planning and delivering lessons and effective class management;
  • Qualifications: HLTA qualification or equivalent (Level 4 or higher) is desirable, or a commitment to working towards it;
  • Passion for Education: A genuine enthusiasm for working with children and a commitment to inclusive education;
  • Creativity: The ability to adapt lessons and approaches to suit a wide range of learning styles and needs;
  • Team Player: Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, parents, and external professionals;
  • Patience and Empathy: A kind and compassionate approach, with the patience to work with children who may require additional time and support.

Why join us?

  • Make a Real Impact: You’ll have the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, helping them grow, learn, and succeed, in line with our vision that everyone has a voice and no one is excluded;
  • Ongoing Development: We are committed to your professional growth and will provide continuous training and support to help you achieve your career goals;
  • Supportive Environment: Work within a fun, happy and nurturing team of dedicated professionals who share your passion for personalised education and inclusion;
  • Rewarding Career: Be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking school community that values every member’s contribution and helps every student be the best that they can be;
  • Benefits: Access to Education Mutual for staff well-being and health support. Devon County Council Cycle to Work Scheme, Local Authority pension scheme. Free on-site parking. Eligibility for a Blue Light Card. 

If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and be part of a school that truly values the potential of every child, we encourage you to apply.  Please see the relevant Job Description and Application Form below.  We do not accept CV's.  Please send completed application forms to: recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk   
Start Date = ASAP.  Interview date to be confirmed.

For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact the HR team on 01392 467168.  This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.