At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant SEMH school, shaping education for pupils with unique needs.
- Company: Values-driven SEMH school in Birmingham, part of a supportive community charity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Be a transformative leader in a nurturing environment that values creativity and community.
- Qualifications: QTS, NPQH, and significant leadership experience in SEMH/SEN settings.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Permanent (via 12-week temp-to-perm through Aspire People)
Salary: Leadership Spine L1-L7
Hours: Full time
Contact: Josh - Aspire People
About the School
Aspire People is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a long-established, values-driven SEMH school in central/south Birmingham. Part of a wider community charity with over 46 years of service, the school provides a nurturing, holistic and highly personalised education for pupils with SEMH and ASD needs, supported by specialist environments such as workshops, agricultural centres and therapeutic spaces. The school is a core part of the Trust's identity and works collaboratively with services including the Nursery, Family Hub, City Farm and Community Programmes. This is a setting where relationships, creativity and community shape every aspect of education.
The Opportunity
The Trust is seeking a visible, values-led and ambitious Headteacher to lead secondary and post-16 provision for 45-57 pupils with SEMH and ASD EHCPs. This is a rare opportunity to shape an innovative, culturally rich and community-rooted school. The Headteacher will be an active member of the Senior Management Team, working closely with the CEO and wider Trust leaders to ensure the school thrives as part of a connected ecosystem - not as a standalone setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Lead the School Improvement Plan with ambition and pace
- Ensure high-quality SEMH education and continuous improvement
- Maintain inspection readiness and strong SEF/SDP processes
- Model ethical, collaborative and values-aligned leadership
- Staff Leadership & Development
- Lead and develop all teaching and non-teaching staff
- Deliver structured performance management, supervision and CPD
- Promote staff wellbeing and sustainable working practices
- Manage underperformance effectively and support succession planning
- Curriculum, Standards & Inclusion
- Design and implement a broad, balanced and engaging SEMH curriculum
- Oversee teaching quality, assessment and data-driven improvement
- Embed trauma-informed behaviour systems
- Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice
- Community & Partnerships
- Build strong relationships with parents/carers
- Work closely with Youth & Community Services to create joined-up pathways
- Liaise with LA partners, specialist agencies and other schools
- Growth, Sustainability & Profile
- Lead pupil-number growth to ensure financial sustainability
- Build strong relationships with SEND teams, commissioners and EPs
- Champion the school's unique SEMH offer across the region
- Finance, Operations & Compliance
- Manage the school budget with the Trust Finance Team
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, H&S, data protection and statutory duties
- Maintain safe, well-managed premises
- Act as DSL or oversee the Deputy DSL
- Governance
- Report regularly to the CEO and Governing Body
- Present high-quality reports on performance, safeguarding, finance and risk
- Maintain accurate governance documentation
Person Specification
Essential
- QTS
- NPQH (or willingness to undertake)
- Strong understanding of SEMH, SEND, safeguarding and specialist provision
- Significant senior leadership experience in SEMH/SEN settings
- Experience leading school improvement and preparing for Ofsted
- Strong communication, data analysis and behaviour-management skills
- Collaborative, resilient, reflective and community-focused
Desirable
- NASENCo
- Experience in community/youth services
- Experience raising a school's profile or growing pupil numbers
- Trauma-informed or therapeutic practice experience
Safeguarding
The Trust and Aspire People are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will require an Enhanced DBS.
How to Apply
Send your CV or call for an informal conversation.
Headteacher employer: Aspire People Limited
Aspire People is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a values-driven SEMH school in Birmingham that prioritises holistic education and community engagement. With a strong focus on staff development, wellbeing, and collaborative leadership, the school fosters a nurturing environment where both pupils and educators can thrive. Joining this dedicated team means being part of a supportive network that champions innovative practices and personal growth, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEMH and SEND. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the role! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your vision for the school and how you plan to make a difference. Let them see your enthusiasm for leading a values-driven SEMH school.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and community involvement. Tailor your responses to reflect their values and demonstrate how you can contribute to their mission of providing a nurturing environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream Headteacher position.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Headteacher role. Highlight your leadership experience in SEMH settings and any relevant qualifications like QTS or NPQH.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for SEMH education and how your values align with the school's mission. Be sure to mention your vision for leading a community-focused school.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use data and examples to demonstrate how you've led school improvements or enhanced pupil outcomes in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire People Limited
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the values and mission of the SEMH school. This will help you align your answers with what they stand for, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for their community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about specific scenarios related to SEMH and ASD needs. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed challenging situations or implemented effective strategies. Be ready to discuss how you would approach similar challenges in this new role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Headteacher, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you lead and develop staff, promote wellbeing, and manage performance. Use concrete examples to illustrate your collaborative and ethical approach to leadership.
✨Engage with Community Focus
Since the school emphasises community relationships, think about how you can contribute to building strong partnerships with parents, local services, and other schools. Share ideas on how you would foster these connections and enhance the school's profile within the community.
