At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a values-driven SEMH school, shaping innovative education for pupils with unique needs.
- Company: Join a long-established community charity with over 46 years of service in education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow professionally while supporting vulnerable students in a collaborative setting.
- Why this job: Be a visible leader in a nurturing environment that prioritises creativity and community.
- Qualifications: QTS, NPQH (or willingness to undertake), and significant senior leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 € per year.
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 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
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. Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.
Headteacher in Birmingham employer: Aspire People
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 educators can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with SEMH and ASD needs. Joining this dedicated team means being part of a supportive network that values creativity, innovation, and the growth of both students and staff alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher in Birmingham
✨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 up at local education events or workshops. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll also meet potential colleagues and decision-makers who could help you land that Headteacher role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow schools, educational leaders, and relevant organisations on platforms like LinkedIn. Engage with their content to get noticed and stay updated on job openings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s quick and easy, plus you’ll be directly in touch with us at Aspire People. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher in Birmingham
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 improved educational outcomes or led successful initiatives 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
✨Know Your SEMH Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of SEMH and ASD needs. Familiarise yourself with the latest practices and frameworks in special education, as well as the specific challenges faced by pupils in these settings. This will show your commitment and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with the school's values. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, managed performance, and fostered a positive culture. Be ready to demonstrate how you can inspire and develop staff.
✨Engage with Community Focus
Since the school values community relationships, come prepared with ideas on how to strengthen partnerships with parents, local services, and other schools. Share any previous experiences where you've built successful collaborations that benefited students and the wider community.
✨Be Ready for Data Discussions
As a Headteacher, you'll need to be data-savvy. Brush up on how to analyse educational data to drive improvement. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data in the past to enhance teaching quality and student outcomes, and how you plan to maintain high standards at this school.
