Hope School is an outstanding special school for pupils aged 5–11 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. We are proud of our non-exclusion policy—no child is ever excluded from Hope School. Many of our pupils have experienced multiple school placements before arriving with us, and we are committed to providing them with the stability, safety, and consistency they need to thrive.

Our approach is holistic, attachment-aware, and trauma-informed, shaped by strong links to the HEARTs project and current research into child development and emotional wellbeing. 
We recognise that challenging behaviour is often a communication of unmet need. Rather than relying on traditional behaviour management techniques, we focus on developing intrinsic motivation and building trusting relationships.

We work in close partnership with parents and carers, offering regular training and support to help them understand and respond to their child’s needs. As a school we can act as a safe base, where children begin to develop trust in adults and confidence in themselves.

Staff wellbeing is at the heart of our culture. We provide monthly external supervision, an open-door leadership team, and ongoing professional development. This commitment ensures our team is supported and resilient, so they can continue to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.

Applicants must possess a genuine enthusiasm for working with pupils who can display challenging behaviour. Experience of working with SEN pupils is desirable. Applicants must be prepared to undergo appropriate training, including training in attachment and trauma practices and positive holding techniques, as deemed necessary by the SLT.

Personal qualities should include: Well motivated, enthusiastic and flexible. High expectations personally and for the children. Good organisation skills. Good teamwork and interpersonal skills, integrity, loyalty, sensitivity and patience.