At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a specialist SEMH school and transform outcomes for young people.
- Company: Dynamic secondary SEMH school in Central London with a supportive governance structure.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing leadership development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to improving lives and educational outcomes.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education for vulnerable learners and inspire positive change.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and substantial leadership experience in SEND or SEMH.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 110000 £ per year.
Location: King's Cross, London
Salary: £85,000 - £110,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2026 (or sooner by negotiation)
Are you an inspirational and experienced senior leader with a passion for transforming outcomes for young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs? We are seeking an exceptional Executive Headteacher to lead a specialist secondary SEMH school in the heart of Central London. This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of a growing and ambitious provision supporting students aged 11–19 with complex SEMH needs, autism, ADHD, and associated learning difficulties.
The successful candidate will provide outstanding educational leadership, drive school improvement, and ensure the highest standards of teaching, learning, safeguarding, and pastoral care across the school.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and vision for the school.
- Drive improvements in teaching, learning, behaviour, attendance, and outcomes.
- Lead and develop the Senior Leadership Team.
- Ensure outstanding safeguarding and student welfare practices.
- Oversee curriculum development tailored to SEMH learners.
- Manage school budgets, staffing, compliance, and operational performance.
- Build strong partnerships with parents, commissioners, local authorities, and external agencies.
- Promote a trauma-informed and therapeutic approach to education.
Requirements
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and substantial leadership experience.
- Proven track record as a Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, Head of School, or Executive Leader.
- Significant experience within SEND, SEMH, Alternative Provision, or specialist education.
- Strong understanding of EHCPs, SEND legislation, safeguarding, and school improvement.
- Demonstrable success in raising standards and improving outcomes for vulnerable learners.
- NPQH, NPQEL, or equivalent leadership qualification desirable.
What We Offer
- Competitive Executive Leadership salary package.
- Opportunity to shape the future of a specialist SEMH provision.
- Supportive and forward-thinking governance structure.
- Ongoing executive leadership development opportunities.
- A chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people.
If you are a visionary leader who believes every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, we would love to hear from you.
Executive Head Teacher employer: Education First Recruitment
As an Executive Headteacher at our specialist secondary SEMH school in King's Cross, you will join a supportive and forward-thinking team dedicated to transforming the lives of young people with complex needs. We offer a competitive salary package, ongoing leadership development opportunities, and the chance to shape a nurturing educational environment that prioritises student welfare and academic success. Our vibrant location in Central London provides unique advantages, including access to diverse resources and partnerships that enhance our educational provision.
Contact Details:
Education First Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEMH. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and showcase your passion for transforming outcomes for young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Think about how your leadership style aligns with their mission to support students with SEMH needs. We want you to shine, so practice articulating your vision for educational leadership!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your achievements! Bring along evidence of your past successes in improving teaching and learning outcomes. Whether it’s data, testimonials, or case studies, we want to see 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 the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate leaders who can drive change in our schools.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Head Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for transforming outcomes for young people with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference and how your experiences align with our mission.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your leadership experience and achievements in the SEMH sector. We’re looking for specific examples of how you’ve driven improvements and supported vulnerable learners, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description. This helps us see how you fit into our vision.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Education First Recruitment
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past to support students with these challenges. This shows your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with the school's vision. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or driven school improvement. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can inspire and motivate others.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing challenging behaviour or improving attendance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Connect with Their Vision
Research the school’s mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. Show genuine enthusiasm for the role and articulate how you can contribute to shaping the future of the SEMH provision.
