Company overview
Essex County Council operates as a key level of local government within Essex, collaborating with local, regional, national, and international authorities to provide services and advocate for the best interests of the county’s residents.
Specialist Teacher – Children with Visual Impairment
Location: Basildon
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: Upper Pay Scale + Fringe & SEN Allowance (£47,031 – £50,471 per annum + SEN Allowance of £2,679 – £5,285)
Application Deadline: 3rd March 2024
Interview Date: 27th March 2025 (Ely House, Basildon)
Working Style: Flexible/Remote
About the Role
Essex County Council is dedicated to transforming services for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), aiming to provide early and effective support with reduced reliance on statutory services. Our vision is to ensure every child receives tailored, impactful assistance that enhances their life outcomes.
We are seeking a Specialist Teacher for Children with Visual Impairments to provide expert teaching, support, and guidance to schools, settings, and families. This role will involve working with children and young people aged 0-25 years, offering specialist interventions and ensuring an inclusive learning environment.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is required, and while a Qualified Teacher of Vision Impairment (QTVI) status is preferred, we will provide training for the right candidate. Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills are essential for this position.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver specialist teaching and support for children with visual impairments, working closely with parents, educators, and professionals.
- Teach the vision impairment additional curriculum, ensuring accessibility and inclusion.
- Conduct functional vision assessments to tailor educational strategies.
- Provide direct teaching for young children and babies in home and group settings.
- Offer training to staff on adapting learning materials into print, audio, or tactile formats.
- Advise on exam access arrangements and contribute to Statutory Assessments.
- Support the development of team policies, professional training, and provision strategies.
Skills & Experience Required
- QTS qualification (Mandatory).
- QTVI (PGDip/MEd in Teaching Children with Vision Impairments) is ideal, but training will be provided.
- Proven experience in supporting children and young people with vision impairments.
- Strong understanding of early childhood development and inclusive education.
- Collaborative approach, working with schools, families, and external agencies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to travel across the operational area (full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle preferred).
Why Join Essex County Council?
As one of the largest and most forward-thinking local authorities in the UK, Essex County Council is committed to improving lives through innovation and efficiency. With a top-three ranking in the IMPOWER productivity index, we strive to create meaningful change while offering employees opportunities for career development, flexibility, and work-life balance.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants, including veterans and care leavers who meet the role requirements.
Safeguarding & Compliance
Essex County Council is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. All employees will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and register with the DBS Update Service.
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