At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead school improvement while teaching half the time and inspiring students.
- Company: Join a dynamic school focused on growth and quality education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and a passion for education are essential.
- Other info: Experience in special education is a plus, but a positive attitude is key.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 49000 £ per year.
Salary: Leadership Scale 5–9 (£52,073 – £57,482 per annum, DOE)
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2025
Reporting to: Headteacher
About the Role:
We are seeking a committed and dynamic Assistant Headteacher to join our leadership team during a key phase of growth and improvement. This role offers a blend of strategic leadership and teaching (50% timetable) with a focus on Quality of Education, Teaching & Learning, and whole-school development. You will deputise for the Headteacher alongside the Deputy Head when required.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership & School Improvement
- Support the Headteacher in leading the school’s vision and improvement priorities.
- Lead specific areas of self-evaluation and school development.
- Inspire staff and pupils, model school values, and support performance management.
- Promote a culture of high standards, inclusion, and wellbeing.
- Support staff recruitment, induction, and retention.
- Teaching & Learning
- Teach 50% of the timetable, delivering high-quality lessons.
- Model best practice and support staff through coaching and mentoring.
- Use assessment to drive progress and inform planning.
- Lead on curriculum development and continuous improvement in teaching practice.
- Operational Leadership
- Lead key operational areas (e.g., curriculum, behaviour, timetabling).
- Contribute to quality assurance and staff CPD planning.
- Support timetabling, rotas, and school organisation.
- Pastoral Leadership & Inclusion
- Oversee behaviour, wellbeing, and inclusion across the school.
- Support safeguarding and work closely with DSLs.
- Build positive relationships with students, staff, families, and professionals.
- Ensure provision meets diverse learner needs, including SEND, EAL, and SEMH.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Foster strong partnerships with families, governors, and the wider community.
- Represent the school in external meetings and prepare stakeholder reports.
- Contribute to school events and assemblies.
We’re looking for a proven leader and teacher who:
- Can drive change and lead school improvement.
- Is resilient, proactive, and solution-focused.
- Understands school evaluation, curriculum, and pedagogy.
- Builds trust and motivates others.
- Communicates with clarity and empathy.
- Is passionate about inclusion and improving young lives.
Experience in a special school is welcome but not required—attitude and growth mindset matter most.
For more information or to express your interest, please contact us at: Education@hartonsearch.com
Contact Detail:
Harton Search Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the school's vision and improvement priorities. Understanding their specific goals will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insights into the school culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your role as Assistant Headteacher.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you inspire both staff and students. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven change and improved educational outcomes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to inclusion and wellbeing. Think of ways you've supported diverse learners in the past, as this is a key focus for the role and will demonstrate your alignment with the school's values.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and expectations of the Assistant Headteacher position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your leadership experience, teaching background, and any relevant achievements. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on quantifiable results where possible.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for education and leadership. Address specific points from the job description, such as your approach to school improvement and inclusion, and explain why you are a great fit for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harton Search Ltd
✨Understand the School's Vision
Before the interview, take time to research the school's vision and improvement priorities. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their strategic direction.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Experience
Since the role involves teaching 50% of the timetable, be ready to share specific examples of your teaching methods and how you've driven student progress. Highlight any innovative practices you've implemented in the classroom.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading teams and driving school improvement. Use examples that showcase your ability to inspire staff, manage performance, and promote a culture of high standards and inclusion.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Relationships
Think about how you've built relationships with families, governors, and the community in previous roles. Be ready to explain how you would foster these partnerships in your new position and why they are important for school success.