Secondary Teacher

job description

Copley Academy is entering an exciting new chapter as it joins Dixons Academies Trust on 1 March 2026, rebranding as Dixons Pennine Academy. As part of this transition, we are looking for an energetic and inspiring Secondary Teacher to lead learning within our Alternative Resource Provision (ARP). This role is dedicated to supporting the area’s most vulnerable young people—those who face significant barriers to learning due to SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) needs, SEND, or challenging behaviors. If you are a resilient educator motivated by social justice and the drive to see every child succeed regardless of their background, this is the place for you.

Key Requirements and Skills

• Curriculum Knowledge: All-round knowledge of relevant subjects for KS3 and KS4, with the ability to teach to GCSE level.

• Specialist Experience: Proven track record of teaching pupils with a range of vulnerabilities, challenging behaviour, or SEND.

• Quality First Teaching: Evidence of impact using inclusive teaching strategies to maximize student performance and progress.

• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with parents, carers, and external support agencies.

• Resilience & Creativity: A highly adaptable mindset with the creative problem-solving skills necessary for a specialized provision environment.

• Understanding of SEMH: High level of expertise in Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs, safeguarding, and equality.

About the Role

In this position, you will nurture and educate pupils who have struggled in mainstream settings, helping them make positive behavior choices and develop into independent learners. You will design and deliver high-quality educational programs tailored to individual needs, ensuring that “Alternative Provision” never means “limited opportunity.”

As a member of Team Dixons, you join a Trust known for challenging social disadvantage across the North. You will benefit from:

• Professional Growth: Regular coaching and a commitment to continuous professional development for every staff member.

• Work-Life Balance: Access to a bold flexible working policy designed to give teachers time back, along with collaborative resource sharing to reduce workload.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Hybrid working arrangements, private health schemes, lifestyle discounts, and free on-site parking.

• Mission-Driven Culture: An environment motivated by autonomy and purpose, where the ultimate goal is ensuring every student has the choice of university or a high-quality apprenticeship by age 18.

We welcome applications from both experienced teachers and ECTs (Early Career Teachers) across the primary or secondary sectors who possess the compassion and “quality first” teaching skills required for this specialist role.