Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in a therapeutic educational setting for children with complex needs.
- Company: Elysian, a pioneering provider of animal-assisted education and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Ongoing professional development, supportive team culture, and beautiful rural settings.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives through creative and holistic education.
- Qualifications: Experienced educational leader with a passion for SEND and trauma-informed practice.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to care, integrity, and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Elysian is seeking a passionate, strategic, and experienced education leader to step into the role of Head of Education and Learning / Headteacher as we prepare to say goodbye to our current Head. This is a unique opportunity to shape and lead an innovative, therapeutic educational provision supporting children and young people with complex needs across our sites.
Working as Head of Education and Learning / Headteacher you will lead our West Horsley provision at Elysian, ensuring high standards of compliance, safeguarding, and innovative curriculum development. You will also be the driving force behind learner progress, staff development, and strategic planning – all while keeping the wellbeing and achievement of our learners at the heart of what you do.
Your duties will include:
- Lead day-to-day operations and long-term development of the education and learning provision
- Oversee compliance with Independent School Standards, OFSTED / ISI requirements, and national policy
- Manage and inspire a multi-disciplinary team, including teaching and support staff
- Develop and monitor high-quality, bespoke curriculum pathways and progression routes
- Be the Designated Safeguarding Lead, championing a culture of safety and inclusion
- Collaborate with local authorities, external agencies, and families to support learners with EHCPs
- Maintain robust systems for tracking, assessment, quality assurance, and reporting
- Work as part of the senior leadership team to shape the future direction of Elysian
About Elysian: Elysian is a pioneering, animal-assisted, therapeutic education and wellbeing provider. We work with young people who may struggle in traditional settings, offering a creative, trauma-informed, and nature-based approach to learning, development, and growth. Our multi-site, multi-disciplinary team delivers high-quality education and therapeutic programmes that change lives.
Who We’re Looking For:
- An experienced educational leader (Head, SENCO, Curriculum Lead, or similar)
- Passionate about SEND, trauma-informed practice, and holistic education
- Skilled in strategic planning, change leadership, and staff development
- Adept at quality assurance, safeguarding, and curriculum innovation
- Ready to bring warmth, creativity, resilience, and rigour to the role
You’ll need excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills – and a strong belief in the transformative power of education, nature, and nurture.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a passionate, forward-thinking team
- Play a key role in shaping a nationally respected alternative provision
- Work in beautiful, rural settings with animals and nature at the heart of the work
- Ongoing CPD, leadership support, and development opportunities
- A culture of care, integrity, growth, and collaboration
The organisation is committed to Safeguarding Children and Young People. All roles are subject to Safeguarding scrutiny, including references and DBS Checks, prior to commencing employment.
Head of Education and Learning / Headteacher in West Horsley employer: AWD online
Contact Detail:
AWD online Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Education and Learning / Headteacher in West Horsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, attend relevant events, and engage with online communities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Elysian and its unique approach to education. Familiarise yourself with their values and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams, developed innovative curricula, or improved learner outcomes. We want to hear your journey and how it’s shaped you into the leader you are today.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Elysian.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Education and Learning / Headteacher in West Horsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and supporting young people shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for SEND and trauma-informed practices, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Education and Learning role. Highlight your experience in strategic planning and curriculum development, as these are key aspects we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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 Elysian.
How to prepare for a job interview at AWD online
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest educational policies, especially around SEND and trauma-informed practices. Brush up on the Independent School Standards and OFSTED requirements, as these will likely come up during your chat.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your approach to leading a multi-disciplinary team. Think about examples where you've inspired staff or driven change. Highlight how you foster a culture of safety and inclusion, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Curriculum Innovation
Elysian is all about bespoke curriculum pathways. Come armed with ideas on how you would develop and monitor high-quality learning experiences. Share any past successes in curriculum development that align with their therapeutic approach.
✨Connect with Their Mission
Demonstrate your passion for holistic education and the transformative power of nature and nurture. Be prepared to share why you believe in Elysian's mission and how you can contribute to their vision of supporting children with complex needs.
