At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead curriculum development and ensure high standards of teaching and learning.
- Company: Aurora Linemere, a nurturing school for children with special needs.
- Benefits: Training opportunities, discounts on essentials, competitive pay, and enhanced leave.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in education and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Recognised teaching qualification and proven experience in special needs education.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to professional growth and student success.
The predicted salary is between 51773 - 55747 £ per year.
Location: Backwell, Bristol
Contract Type: Full-time/Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: £51,773 - £55,747 (L1 – L4)
Preferred Start Date: 13th April 2026
Closing Date: 27th January 2026
Aurora Linemere is opening its doors in Summer 2026, and we’re looking for an experienced Assistant Head of School (Curriculum) to help make this vision a reality. This is a rare opportunity to be part of something truly transformative. Aurora Linemere will be a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious school for children and young people aged 5–19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. With a capacity of 96 students, our vision is to create a safe, enriching and aspirational environment where every learner can thrive.
The role: As Assistant Head of School (Curriculum), you’ll work closely with the Head of School, Principal, and Senior Leadership Team to lead and manage all aspects of teaching and learning. You’ll take responsibility for driving high-quality teaching, improving standards of learning, and supporting staff to deliver an engaging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading curriculum development and ensuring high standards of teaching and learning.
- Monitoring pupil progress and implementing strategies to secure improvement.
- Supporting CPD and mentoring staff to develop their practice.
- Contributing to school improvement planning and governance reporting.
- Line managing teachers and teaching assistants.
- Promoting a safe, inclusive, and aspirational learning environment.
About You: We’re looking for someone with:
Essential Qualifications:
- Recognised teacher training qualification – PGCE / QTS or QTLS / Diploma in Teaching.
Essential Experience:
- Proven track record of excellent creative and structured teaching within a special needs environment.
- Experience of holding responsibility for and turning policy into effective and successful practice.
- Leadership of a significant area or phase or inclusion, including responsibility for raising standards across the whole school.
- Effective team management and collaborative working.
- Strong communication skills across a range of audiences and mediums.
- Successful management of complex scenarios and conflict resolution.
- Proven ability to work effectively with a range of external agencies.
What’s on Offer at Aurora? We believe in supporting you as much as we support the children and young people in our care. Here’s a snapshot of the fantastic benefits waiting for you:
- Grow with Us – Training & Development: Learning never stops at Aurora! We offer a wide range of training programmes and career development opportunities to help you build your skills and reach your goals.
- Save Money on Everyday Essentials: With the rising cost of living, our Perkbox app helps you stretch your money further: Discounts on groceries, phone plans, internet, dining out, gym memberships & more. Access to our Cycle to Work and Car Scheme.
- Competitive Pay & Reward: We regularly benchmark our pay and benefits to stay ahead of the curve. You’ll enjoy: Enhanced Annual Leave, Company Sick Pay, Enhanced Pension, Life Assurance.
Assistant Head of School in Bristol employer: Aurora Linemere School
Contact Detail:
Aurora Linemere School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head of School in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who might have insights into Aurora Linemere. A friendly chat can open doors and give you the inside scoop on what they're really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research Aurora Linemere's vision and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Practise answering common questions and be ready to showcase your leadership skills in a special needs environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet the team, let your enthusiasm for creating an inclusive learning environment shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Aurora Linemere family and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head of School in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Assistant Head of School role. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with our vision for Aurora Linemere.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working in a special needs environment shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive and nurturing learning space for all students.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon, making it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Aurora Linemere!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aurora Linemere School
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand Aurora Linemere's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. This will help you align your answers with their vision and demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your leadership experience in a special needs environment. Highlight how you've successfully managed teams, driven curriculum development, and improved teaching standards. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle complex scenarios and conflict resolution. Think of past experiences where you’ve navigated challenges effectively. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's culture, professional development opportunities, and how they measure success. Engaging with the panel shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.