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For Companies Bower Lodge School
Hampshire
Salary:
Up to ÂŁ55,000 per annum depending on expereince
Job type:
Full Time, Permanent
Start date:
12 January 2026
Apply by:
8 October 2025
Job overview
How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we\’re putting wellbeing first.
That\’s why we\’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it\’s already in place or just around the corner, now\’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG.
We are looking for an experienced Assistant Headteacher for SENDCo to join our Bower Lodge School in Dibden, Southampton.
Bower Lodge School, Southampton, SO45 5TD
Up to ÂŁ55,000 dependant on experience and qualifications
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday 08:30-16:30
Permanent, Term Time only
Start Date: January 2026
UK Applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
As part of our continued growth in service, we are looking for an outstanding experienced Assistant Headteacher to join our amazing team at Bower Lodge School in Southampton.
About the Role
The Assistant Headteacher for SENDCO will have overall responsibility for the strategic development of the school\’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) policy, including oversight of the day-to-day operation of that policy with the aim of raising all students\’ attainment and achievement.
The Assistant Headteacher will take lead responsibility for ensuring the best possible curriculum offer, provision, well-being, progress and achievement for all pupils through careful monitoring and holding staff to account for the progress their pupils make. The role will also include teaching time.
To be responsible for progress and support of a Key Stage.
To be responsible for a specific curriculum or pastoral responsibility, as required to fulfil the school development plan and that supports teaching and learning.
To carry out teaching duties in accordance with the school\’s schemes of work and National Curriculum.
To meet in full the Professional Standards for Teachers.
To model and promote good practice in teaching and learning.
To contribute to and help implement developments that relate to the School Development Plan.
To monitor progress and targets to ensure that each individual student is able to achieve planned outcomes.
Essential
QTS
NASENDCO or equivalent is desirable or a willingness to undertake if appointed
Relevant experience in the specialist area of service i.e., relevant experience of working with young people/young adults with Autistic spectrum disorders and/or challenging behaviours.
Experience of managing staff.
Good knowledge of people management practices.
Effective leadership skills.
Please note you will be asked to provide an example of how you have supported pupils with SEND needs and how you know this has been successful (500 word max).
About us
Our New Options Primary School – Bower Lodge located in Dibden, Southampton has a capacity for 40 pupils catering for autistic young people aged 4 – 11.
For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a \’Great Place to Work\’ for the fifth year running.
Why join Options Autism?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you\’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you\’ll get an exceptional reward package including:
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
\”Your Wellbeing Matters\” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that\’s right for you, including:
A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
100\’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
Cycle to Work Schemes
Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
- You\’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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About Bower Lodge School
Bower Lodge School
Main Road, Dibden, Southampton
Hampshire
SO45 5TD
United Kingdom
Bower Lodge School is a brand new day school in Southampton for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 with a diagnosis of autism, and who have a range of complex learning needs, communication and sensory difficulties.
We are a happy, nurturing and ambitious school and have extremely high expectations of all. Our staff team work with dedication, empathy, enthusiasm and care. These qualities together with their expertise create a fantastic learning environment for our pupils.
We are committed to continual development of the school in all areas and we are extremely excited about what the future holds for Bower Lodge.
Please note that you are wholly responsible for fact checking in respect of the information provided by schools. Please also check for the latest visa and work permit requirements that may apply. Tes is not responsible for the content of advertisements or the policies adopted by advertising schools. Tes asks that all schools follow Tes\’ Fair Recruitment Policy .
Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO employer: Bower Lodge School Hampshire
Contact Detail:
Bower Lodge School Hampshire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission, especially regarding supporting pupils with SEND.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've positively impacted students with SEND. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining #teamOFG.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO. Use specific examples from your past that demonstrate your skills in managing staff and supporting pupils with SEND needs.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with neurodivergent young people shine through! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity at Bower Lodge School and how you can contribute to our mission of providing exceptional education and care.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, especially the 500-word example of your support for pupils with SEND needs, keep it clear and to the point. Make sure every word counts and directly relates to the impact you've made.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bower Lodge School Hampshire
✨Know Your SEN Policies
Make sure you’re well-versed in the school’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) policies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented these in your previous roles and how they can be adapted to fit Bower Lodge School's unique environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing staff and supporting pupils with SEND needs. Think about specific situations where you’ve successfully led a team or improved student outcomes.
✨Engage with the 4-Day Working Week Concept
Since the school is part of a 4-Day Working Week trial, be prepared to discuss how this model can enhance staff wellbeing and student learning. Share your thoughts on work-life balance and how it can positively impact the school community.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Education
Express your genuine passion for working with neurodivergent young people. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.