At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to ensure every pupil thrives in a supportive environment.
- Company: Join Ryecroft School, part of Outcomes First Group, committed to wellbeing and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day working week, competitive salary, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pupils with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership, safeguarding, and a passion for education.
- Other info: Be part of a dedicated team shaping the future of education.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Ryecroft School, Walsall, West Midlands, WS2 7BH
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am - 4:00pm
Salary: Up to ÂŁ50,000.00 per annum (not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: March 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
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, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay.
About the Role
As Assistant Headteacher, you will be at the heart of the leadership team, helping shape the future of Ryecroft School and ensuring every pupil thrives. This is more than a leadership role — it’s an opportunity to embed a culture of excellence, safeguarding, and inclusion across the school, supporting both staff and pupils to reach their full potential.
You will:
- Support the Headteacher in leading the school, ensuring high-quality education, care, and wellbeing for all pupils
- Act as a core member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to strategy, school improvement, and operational planning
- Embed a strong culture of safeguarding, inclusion, and pupil safety across the school community
- Develop and maintain effective systems, processes, and routines to support smooth day-to-day operations
- Liaise with parents, carers, external agencies, and stakeholders to ensure holistic support for pupils
- Provide clear advice, reports, and recommendations to the Headteacher, Regional Director, and governance bodies
About You
We’re looking for a senior leader who combines experience, vision, and heart:
- Qualified Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Strong commitment to personal and professional development
- Secure understanding of safeguarding legislation, policies, and best practice
- Sound knowledge of education law, SEN requirements, and statutory frameworks
- Proven ability to lead strategically while remaining approachable, supportive, and practical
- Inspirational communicator with the ability to motivate staff and drive positive change
At Ryecroft School, you’ll join a dedicated team who are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of pupils with special educational needs. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping a school where every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to succeed.
About Us
Ryecroft School provides specialist education for autistic pupils aged 4–18 with complex needs. We offer a nurturing, safe, and structured environment where every child is supported to thrive. Small classes and personalised timetables ensure tailored learning, independence, and life skills development. Our skilled staff foster strong relationships with families and professionals to maximise each pupil’s potential.
For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. 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.
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
*Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
Assistant Headteacher in Walsall employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher in Walsall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, attend local events, and join online forums. 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 the school and its values. Understand their approach to safeguarding and inclusion, and be ready to share how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable discussing your leadership style and how you’ve driven positive change in previous roles. The more you rehearse, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s showtime!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining #teamOFG!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in pupils' lives!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the role of Assistant Headteacher. We love seeing how your background fits with our vision at Ryecroft School.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and ideas.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the role of an Assistant Headteacher. Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos, especially around safeguarding and inclusion. Brush up on education law and SEN requirements so you can speak confidently about how you’ll support both staff and pupils.
✨Show Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach. Think about examples where you've motivated a team or driven positive change. Be ready to share how you create a supportive environment while maintaining high expectations — this is key for the role!
✨Engage with the Community
Since liaising with parents and external agencies is part of the job, come prepared with ideas on how to strengthen those relationships. Share any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with stakeholders to enhance pupil support.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in the school’s future and its culture. Ask about their vision for the 4-Day Working Week and how they see it impacting staff and pupils — this will demonstrate your commitment to their wellbeing initiatives.