Job Description

English Teacher - Alternative Provision

St Albans | Full-Time | November 2026 Start | £35,602 - £54,328 London Fringe MPS/UPS

English Teacher - ideally with Psychology or SEMH experience

Tradewind Recruitment is currently seeking a nurturing, resilient and enthusiastic English Teacher to join an established Alternative Provision setting in St Albans, supporting students aged 11-16.

The role is due to start in November 2026, following the October half term, although an earlier start may be possible. This is a full-time position and would suit an experienced Secondary English Teacher, or potentially a strong Primary Teacher with QTS, excellent behaviour management and a passion for supporting pupils with additional needs.

About the Role

You will teach English to small groups of students who have experienced challenges within mainstream education. Classes are typically just 2-8 pupils, allowing you to build strong relationships and provide highly personalised support.

The students generally have low prior attainment and SEMH needs, so the successful teacher will need to be patient, adaptable and confident in using a calm, consistent and nurturing approach.

The English curriculum focuses on developing students' confidence and ability in:

  • Reading, writing and spoken language
  • GCSE English Language
  • Vocabulary development and reading comprehension
  • Creative and analytical writing
  • Exploring a broad range of accessible and engaging texts
  • Developing critical thinking and communication skills
  • Rebuilding confidence and re-engaging students with education

The Ideal Candidate

We are particularly interested in teachers who can demonstrate:

  • QTS and relevant teaching experience
  • Experience teaching English to pupils aged 11-16, ideally through GCSE
  • A Psychology background or experience working with SEMH pupils would be highly advantageous
  • Strong behaviour management and the ability to de-escalate challenging situations
  • A nurturing, patient and relational approach
  • The ability to adapt lessons for pupils with low prior attainment
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
  • Resilience, flexibility and a genuine commitment to helping young people succeed

Could a Primary Teacher Apply?

Yes. While secondary English experience is preferred, this position could suit an experienced Primary Teacher with QTS who is confident teaching English, has excellent behaviour management and enjoys working with pupils who need a more personalised and nurturing approach.

About the Setting

Our client provides an alternative to mainstream education for young people aged 11-16 who may have struggled to engage successfully within a traditional school environment.

The setting places a strong emphasis on re-engagement, relationships, confidence and individual progress. Students are taught in very small groups, enabling staff to understand each learner's needs and provide targeted support.

The English department aims to help students rediscover their confidence in reading and writing while developing the communication skills needed for academic success and future opportunities.

Why Work with Tradewind Recruitment?

  • Competitive London Fringe MPS/UPS salary: £35,602 - £54,328
  • Full-time, long-term opportunity
  • Supportive Alternative Provision environment
  • Small class sizes of 2-8 students
  • Opportunity to make a genuine difference to young people's lives
  • Excellent ongoing support from your Tradewind consultant
  • Access to CPD and professional development opportunities
  • Tradewind's PAYE payroll - no umbrella company
  • Fully compliant safeguarding and vetting procedures

Apply Now

This is an excellent opportunity for an English Teacher who wants to move away from the pressures of mainstream education and work in a small, supportive and relationship-focused environment where individual progress really matters.

Interviews are being arranged now, so early applications are encouraged.

To apply, please submit your CV or contact Carlo Randazzo at Tradewind Recruitment for more information.

Carlo Randazzo
Senior Education Consultant - Hertfordshire
01727 236 255
carlo.randazzo@twrecruitment.com

Tradewind Recruitment - REC Audited Education Gold Standard. Committed to safeguarding. Proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer.