Advice greatly appreciated (Teacher)

[Paradoes]

Hi/ I am a Special Ed Teacher for students with autism. I worked in a special school setting and now teach in mainstream. The school culture is nice but very academic focused. I have challenging behaviour and one serious issue that won’t go away but o don’t want to discuss it here but this issue is a daily source of serious stress to me. Management have failed to put in supports eg teachers to cover while I have lunch but that is now resolved after a battle. Anyway I have found a job 45 mins from home (this is ten mins from home) but I need to have a reason to move schools

It will look odd on my application why I am moving to another school 45 mins away for the exact same job ? I know I can’t and I wouldn’t criticise my current school. How do I get the message across politely ? Also Headteachers talk ??

You could say something like you want to explore new opportunities. Is there anything different in the approach/ethos/policies of the new school that you could mention?

I would say for your professional development you want to work in a new environment with different challenges and different experiences.

Say you are looking to move to X area so are seeking work in nearby areas. No one really cares as long as you aren’t dodging competency or similar but have something you are happy with.

You could that you are finding living in catchment too close for comfort.

Say that you haven't felt its the right school for you.

If they ask you to elaborate you could say something like 'I enjoy working as part of a team and my role in my current school is too stand alone'

Or just be honest. Say you don't feel you have the right support to fulfil your role. When they ask what support you are lacking be clear about what would help you e.g no support /plan in place when pupils are violent...whereas at other schools x y z has happened.

How long have you been in your job? If you’ve been there for a decent amount of time they might be less bothered about a reason and more likely to accept a bland ‘new experiences as part of professional development’.

They rarely ask why. Just sound excited about the new one, pick bits to praise and sound positive. Don’t mention the old one. Bonus if they mention cpd or development opportunities,mention those

In general I think that “pull” reasons sound much better than “push” reasons on applications.

If you want to answer honestly I’d put something like “The ethos of X school looks to be an excellent fit for me, and I think I would bring Y characteristics which would fit well. In particular I was impressed with the support which you offer your staff team and your behaviour management policies which I feel are sector-leading.”

I put something along the lines of broadening my experience, looking for new challenges, etc

If bland new experiences, love your ethos don’t work- lie. I am moving further from my school and closer to yours too which makes it an easier commute. Still looking for a bourse blah blah