PRU Teacher – SEMH & Trauma-Informed Practice
Pupil Referral Unit – Sutton/Merton
Start Date: January 2026
Contract: Full-time, Long-term
Salary: M1 – M6 (Inner/Outer London weighting as applicable)
We are seeking a resilient, compassionate and emotionally intelligent PRU Teacher to join a supportive Pupil Referral Unit in Sutton from January 2026. This full-time, long-term role is suited to teachers who are passionate about working with young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, many of whom have experienced early childhood trauma, disrupted education, attachment difficulties and adverse life experiences.
Our pupils may present with behaviours that communicate unmet needs rather than deliberate challenge. Building trusting, consistent and respectful relationships is at the heart of this role. Success is measured not only through academic progress, but through engagement, self-regulation, resilience and re-connection with learning.
The Role
As a PRU Teacher, you will:
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Plan and deliver flexible, differentiated and accessible lessons that re-engage pupils with learning at their level
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Create a safe, predictable and emotionally supportive classroom environment rooted in trauma-informed practice
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Use relational and restorative approaches to support behaviour, understanding that behaviour is a form of communication
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Support pupils to develop emotional literacy, self-regulation and coping strategies
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Adapt the curriculum to prioritise engagement, confidence, life skills and readiness to learn, alongside academic progress
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Maintain clear boundaries, routines and expectations while remaining calm, fair and consistent
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Track and record progress in academic, social and emotional development, aligned with EHCPs or personalised support plans
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Work closely with pastoral staff, mentors, therapists, social workers and families to provide joined-up support
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Respond confidently and professionally to challenging behaviour, using de-escalation strategies and reflective practice
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Safeguard pupils at all times, recognising the impact of trauma and vulnerability
The Ideal Candidate
You will:
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Hold QTS (or an equivalent recognised teaching qualification)
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Have experience working with pupils with SEMH needs, challenging behaviour, trauma or in alternative provision (desirable but not essential)
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Demonstrate emotional resilience, patience and empathy
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Understand the impact of trauma, attachment and adverse childhood experiences on behaviour and learning
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Be reflective, adaptable and able to reset and rebuild relationships when needed
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Maintain a calm, non-judgemental and respectful presence under pressure
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Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary and pastoral-led team
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Be committed to ongoing professional development in trauma-informed and restorative practice
What We Offer
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M1 – M6 pay scale
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A supportive leadership team with a strong pastoral ethos
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Extensive CPD in SEMH, trauma-informed practice, behaviour support and de-escalation
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Small class sizes and high staff-to-pupil ratios
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Access to specialist services including counselling, mentoring and therapeutic support
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The opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on young people’s lives and futures
If you are a teacher who believes that relationships come before learning, and that every young person deserves understanding, consistency and hope, we would love to hear from you.
Apply now through Parker Smith Inclusion and help young people rediscover trust, confidence and purpose in education.
For more information, contact Jamie Martinez, SEND Consultant.