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- Tasks: Lead and shape a specialist SEMH and Autism school from the ground up.
- Company: Outcomes First Group, a values-driven organisation committed to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day working week, competitive salary, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Create a nurturing environment where every child feels safe and empowered to succeed.
- Qualifications: Experienced leader with a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice and inclusive education.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and make a lasting impact on young lives.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 96000 £ per year.
Specialist SEMH & Autism School North West - England
Salary: Up to 85,000 per annum (dependent on experience, not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Hours: Monday - Friday
Start: February 2026
UK Applicants Only - this role does not offer sponsorship
How would you like to get paid for five days but only work four? At Outcomes First Group, we believe great leadership happens when people have the time, space and wellbeing to do their best work. That’s why we are proud to be part of the 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial giving you the opportunity to work one day less each week (or equivalent hours) while receiving full-time pay. Many of our schools already operate the 4DWW; others will adopt it as staffing grows. Whichever setting you join, you’ll be part of a culture that values balance just as much as impact.
The Opportunity
This is not just a Headship. It’s a once-in-a-career opportunity to create something truly special. We are seeking an exceptional and visionary Headteacher to bring a specialist school to life supporting children and young people with SEMH, Autism and associated needs. From the very first day, you will shape the culture, values and direction of a school designed around understanding, compassion and ambition. This is your chance to build a setting where pupils who may have struggled elsewhere finally feel safe, understood and empowered to succeed.
As Headteacher, you will have the rare opportunity to:
- Design and develop a specialist school from the ground up
- Embed therapeutic, trauma-informed practice at the heart of learning
- Create a culture where wellbeing, safety and progress go hand in hand
- Lead, inspire and grow a high-calibre multidisciplinary team
- Build a school where pupils belong, thrive and achieve their potential
- Make a lasting impact that will be felt for generations
If you’re driven by purpose and excited by the idea of building something meaningful, this role offers true professional legacy.
What You’ll Do
- Provide strategic leadership and a clear, inspiring vision for a specialist SEMH and Autism setting
- Create a nurturing, ambitious and trauma-informed environment where behaviour is understood as communication
- Lead on safeguarding, quality, compliance and operational excellence from day one
- Recruit, develop and inspire a passionate, skilled staff team
- Work in close partnership with therapists and specialists to deliver highly personalised pathways
- Build trusted relationships with parents, carers and local authorities
About You
We’re seeking a leader who brings heart, resilience and expertise in equal measure:
- An experienced Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher within SEN, SEMH, specialist or alternative provision
- A deep understanding of trauma-informed practice and inclusive education
- Strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks for specialist settings
- Proven ability in budget management, resource planning and leading change
- A passionate advocate for high expectations and aspirational outcomes for every pupil
- Qualified teacher (QTS/QTLS) with significant SEN leadership experience
If you’re inspired by the opportunity to change lives, shape futures and build a school where every child matters, we would love to hear from you.
Why Join Outcomes First Group?
At Outcomes First Group, every day brings the chance to make a meaningful, lasting difference. In return for your expertise and commitment, we offer outstanding career development and access to a network of exceptional leaders across our organisation. You will be joining passionate, values-driven colleagues who share your belief in excellence supported by a collaborative community that empowers you to lead with confidence, innovation, and impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a Great Place to Work for the sixth year running. We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, and you’ll start each day knowing your work is making a significant positive difference.
We are committed to 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 receive an exceptional reward package, including:
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
- Your Wellbeing Matters - access to a wide range of mental health support services and physical health checks
- Our market-leading benefits platform, Vista, allows you to tailor a package that suits your needs, including:
- A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance options
- Hundreds of discounts in the UK and abroad
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support - covering enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. 4DWW will be rolled out within our school, when we have a full complement of staff so there’s never been a more exciting time to join us #teamOFG! 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.
Headteacher (North West) in Lancing employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher (North West) in Lancing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with SEMH and Autism settings. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Think about how your vision aligns with theirs, especially around trauma-informed practices. Show them you’re not just a fit on paper but a perfect match for their culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Plus, it makes tracking your application a breeze!
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher (North West) in Lancing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your passion for education and how you connect with the values of our school. Don't be afraid to share your personal experiences and what drives you.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific role of Headteacher at our SEMH & Autism School. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our mission to create a nurturing environment for our pupils.
Showcase Your Vision: We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead. Use your application to paint a picture of your vision for the school. How would you embed trauma-informed practices? What culture do you want to create? Let us see your ideas!
Check Your Details: Before hitting send, give your application a thorough once-over. Typos and errors can distract from your message. We want to focus on your qualifications and passion, so make sure everything is polished and professional!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your vision for a specialist SEMH and Autism school. Be ready to articulate how you would create a nurturing environment that prioritises wellbeing and progress. This will show your passion and commitment to making a meaningful impact.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your expertise in trauma-informed practice and inclusive education. Highlight your leadership experience, especially in SEN or SEMH settings, and how you've successfully managed teams and resources to achieve high outcomes.
✨Engage with the Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's culture, values, and future plans. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school aligns with your own values and vision for education.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Discuss your approach to building partnerships with therapists, specialists, and families. Share how you would foster a collaborative environment that supports personalised pathways for students. This is crucial for a role that focuses on understanding and empowering pupils with diverse needs.
