Head of Therapies in Reading

A highly regarded special free school in Maidenhead, Berkshire, for children and young people with a primary diagnosis of autism, is seeking an outstanding Head of Therapies for September 2026; however, a later start would also be considered. The school delivers an integrated approach that combines ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis), evidence-based therapy, and personalised curriculum pathways to maximise pupil outcomes and preparation for adult life. The school’s motto is “Through Adversity to the Stars” and is recognised for innovation, high expectations, and transformational outcomes for children and young people with autism.

The Role

As a member of the senior leadership team (SLT), you will support the leadership team by managing, delivering, and monitoring high-quality therapeutic services (including speech and language, occupational, and arts therapies) as part of a multidisciplinary team. This will enable pupils to reach their full potential.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure high-quality, evidence-based therapeutic services are delivered consistently across the school.
• Oversee the development of universal, targeted, and individualised therapeutic provision, ensuring alignment with the school’s strategic plan.
• Monitor and assess the impact of therapeutic services on pupil progress, using data to inform future planning.
• Provide weekly mentorship and support to the therapy lead and some of our therapy team in clinical, professional and pastoral care.
• Support the day-to-day management of therapeutic provision as part of the Senior Leadership Team, including leading and supporting therapy staff (e.g., speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and art therapists), liaising with teachers, behaviour analysts and other professionals, and contributing to reports and review meetings.
• Monitor and maintain consistent data collection methods and reporting that are aligned with the school ethos and best practices in ABA and therapeutic provisions.
• Quality assure that the school's use of therapeutic interventions is always child-centred and compassionate.
• Lead policy updates in designated areas, advising the SLT to ensure compliance with current legislation.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current therapeutic research and practice, supporting the school's research and development lead.
• Be responsible for the overall therapies budget in conjunction with the appropriate member of the senior leadership team.
• Work with the SLT to maintain consistent policy implementation and update procedures in line with legislation and HCPC guidance.
• Lead and develop the therapy team, ensuring services align with and support the school’s strategic priorities.

We are looking for a candidate who has:

Essential

• Professional qualification in Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, or Clinical Psychology.
• Current registration with HCPC or other relevant professional body.
• Minimum of 5 years of a successful, proven track record of delivering high-quality therapeutic services.
• At least 2 years’ experience of supporting and mentoring therapy staff across varied settings and client groups.
• Experience in managing a multidisciplinary team.
• Committed to the principles of ABA, education and continuing professional development.
• Proven ability to develop, implement, and monitor therapy services and programs.
• Demonstrable skill in producing structured professional documentation, such as EHCP reports, Annual Reviews, and treatment or progress notes.
• Experience training staff and presenting to a range of audiences.
• Strong understanding of child development and the role of therapy in supporting learning and wellbeing outcomes.
• Ability to use data to monitor, evaluate and review decisions and outcomes.
• Ability to relate working practices to the school’s strategic vision and outcomes for pupils.
• Support, motivate and inspire both colleagues and pupils by leading through example.

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant therapeutic field.
• Recent leadership training.
• Significant experience in delivering therapeutic services within an educational setting.
• Proficiency in M365 Office tools to the level of training others.
• Experience managing a therapy budget.
• Evidence of whole-service or organisational leadership and turning policy into successful practice.

If you are passionate about empowering young people with complex needs to develop their independence, realise their potential, and be well prepared for adulthood, please forward your CV and covering letter. For a confidential discussion or candidate information pack, please contact Devra Farhi for further details. Applications close at 9 am on Wednesday, 8th July, with interviews on the 13th and 14th July. Harris Hill is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and comply with all safeguarding requirements.