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- Tasks: Lead a specialist school, inspiring staff and empowering pupils to achieve their best.
- Company: Ashley Park School, a new independent specialist school for autistic young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, life assurance, pension scheme, and mental health support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a pioneering organisation committed to excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people and shape a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: QTS or degree equivalent, with strong leadership and strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Ashley Park School, Epsom, Surrey KT18 7LR
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Salary: Up to ÂŁ72,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: June 2026
UK applicants only â no sponsorship available
About the Role
At Ashley Park School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a safe, nurturing and ambitious environment. We are seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead our specialist learning community â a visionary leader who can inspire staff, empower pupils and shape a culture where every young person can achieve more than they ever thought possible. This is more than a leadership role â itâs your opportunity to drive meaningful change, influence lives and build a school where excellence, inclusion and wellbeing are at the heart of everything.
As Head of School, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all areas of school life, ensuring the highest standards in education, safeguarding, wellbeing and school improvement. Working closely with staff, families, local authorities and external partners, youâll create a culture that is aspirational, inclusive and childâcentred â where pupils feel valued, supported and inspired to succeed. Youâll lead a dedicated team, shape the future direction of the school and ensure Ashley Park School continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and young people.
What Youâll Do
- Leading the school to deliver exceptional outcomes across academic, personal and social development
- Creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment with safeguarding at its core
- Driving high standards in teaching, learning, behaviour and therapeutic support
- Leading, motivating and developing a talented team through effective recruitment, CPD and performance management
- Overseeing strategic planning, selfâevaluation and continuous school improvement
- Building strong relationships with pupils, families, local authorities and external partners
- Ensuring compliance with DfE, Ofsted and statutory requirements
- Supporting the schoolâs ongoing growth, sustainability and operational success
- Championing the values and vision of Acorn Education across the wider organisation
What Weâre Looking For
- QTS or Degree equivalent required
- Inspirational leadership and a passion for transforming the lives of children and young people
- Deep understanding of SEND, safeguarding and highâquality teaching and learning
- Strong strategic thinking, operational management and peopleâleadership skills
- A commitment to excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement
If you are committed to helping young people achieve more than they ever thought possible, we would love to hear from you.
About Us
Ashley Park School is a brandânew independent specialist school in Epsom, Surrey, for autistic young people aged 11â19, with a capacity for 60 pupils. We provide a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where every pupil can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Personalised teaching, differentiated lessons, and tailored therapeutic support ensure each pupilâs unique needs and abilities are met. Our curriculum combines academic study, vocational pathways, and life skills, preparing young people to achieve their full potential and future aspirations.
For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidenceâbased approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a âGreat Place to Workâ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- âYour Wellbeing Mattersâ â mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista)
- Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Head of School in Surrey employer: Acorn Care and Education
Contact Detail:
Acorn Care and Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Head of School in Surrey
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, attend local events, and engage with online communities. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ashley Park School and its values. Understand their approach to education and be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. Show them youâre not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what theyâre about.
â¨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where youâve made a difference in previous roles. Whether itâs improving student outcomes or leading a team, having these stories ready will help you shine during interviews.
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School in Surrey
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of School role. Highlight your experience in leading educational settings and how it aligns with our vision at Ashley Park School.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We want to see your unique approach to leadership! Share examples of how you've inspired teams and driven change in previous roles, especially in inclusive environments that support young people.
Emphasise Your Commitment to Wellbeing: Since wellbeing is at the heart of what we do, be sure to discuss your strategies for creating a nurturing environment. Talk about how youâve prioritised safeguarding and supported both staff and students in your past positions.
Apply Through Our Website: Donât forget to submit your application through our website! Itâs the best way for us to receive your details and ensures youâre considered for this exciting opportunity at Ashley Park School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Care and Education
â¨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, dive deep into Ashley Park School's mission and values. Understand how they aim to create a nurturing environment for autistic young people. This will help you align your answers with their vision and demonstrate your commitment to their goals.
â¨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of School, your leadership approach is crucial. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to inspire and motivate staff, as well as how you've successfully led teams in the past. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented to drive school improvement and foster an inclusive culture.
â¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, such as managing safeguarding issues or supporting students with SEND. Think through potential scenarios and articulate your thought process clearly, showcasing your strategic thinking and operational management skills.
â¨Engage with the Interview Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's future direction, challenges they face, and how you can contribute. This not only shows your interest but also allows you to assess if the school aligns with your values and leadership style.