At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead curriculum development and enhance teaching standards in a new SEN school.
- Company: Join a nurturing and inclusive school dedicated to supporting children with special needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, health cash back plan, and a bike to work scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with Autism and SEMH needs.
- Qualifications: PGCE/QTS or equivalent, with experience in special education preferred.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape a brand new school environment.
The predicted salary is between 51773 - 55747 £ per year.
Location: Backwell, Bristol
Contract Type: Full-time/Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: £51,773 - £55,747 (L1 - L4)
Preferred Start Date: 13th April 2026
Closing Date: 27th January 2026
School Staffing Solutions are proud to be recruiting an Assistant Head of School for a brand new SEN School which will open its doors in Autumn 2026. We are looking for an experienced Assistant Head of School (Curriculum) to help make this vision a reality. The school will be a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious school for children and young people aged 5-19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
The role: As Assistant Head of School (Curriculum), you will work closely with the Head of School, Principal, and Senior Leadership Team to lead and manage all aspects of teaching and learning. You will take responsibility for driving high-quality teaching, improving standards of learning, and supporting staff to deliver an engaging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading curriculum development and ensuring high standards of teaching and learning.
- Monitoring pupil progress and implementing strategies to secure improvement.
- Supporting CPD and mentoring staff to develop their practice.
- Contributing to school improvement planning and governance reporting.
- Line managing teachers and teaching assistants.
- Promoting a safe, inclusive, and aspirational learning environment.
Essential Qualifications:
- Recognised teacher training qualification - PGCE / QTS or QTLS / Diploma in Teaching
Desirable Qualifications:
- Accredited training in specific areas of special education, e.g. Autism, Dyslexia etc.
- Management/leadership qualification
Essential Experience:
- Proven track record of excellent creative and structured teaching within a special needs environment.
- Experience of holding responsibility for and turning policy into effective and successful practice.
- Leadership of a significant area or phase of inclusion, including responsibility for raising standards across the whole school.
- Effective team management and working collaboratively and effectively with others.
- Communicating effectively to a wide range of different audiences through a range of different mediums.
- Successful management of complex scenarios and conflict resolution.
- Effective relationships working successfully with a range of external agencies.
Desirable Experience:
- Experience of teaching pupils with autism.
- Evidence of developing and delivering effective and inspirational professional development for staff including mentoring and coaching as appropriate.
- Evidence of contributing effectively to the work of the senior leadership team.
- A clear understanding of the essential qualities necessary for effective teaching and learning.
- Up to date knowledge of statutory regulations and guidance on education at school level, attainment, progress and assessment methods.
Whats on Offer:
Benefits:
- Full training and continued support
- Life assurance and pension
- Health cash back plan
- Car lease scheme
- Bike to work scheme
- Perk box
- Free parking
Apply today by sending your CV and we will send you an application form to complete and send back to us for proofing. We look forward to hearing from you!
School Staffing Solutions Recruitment Ltd is acting as an employment business for this position.
Assistant Headteacher employer: School Staffing Solutions
Contact Detail:
School Staffing Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Get in touch with Jennifer ASAP! Whether you prefer calling or emailing, reaching out directly is a great way to show your enthusiasm for the Assistant Headteacher role. Plus, it gives you a chance to ask any burning questions about the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview like a pro! Research the school’s vision and values, especially since it’s a new SEN school. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to share specific examples of your past successes.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with other educators! Connect with professionals in the special education field on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have insights or tips that could help you stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so take advantage of that!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get the Application Form: First things first, reach out to Jennifer via call or email to grab that application form. It’s super important to get this step sorted before diving into the rest of your application.
Tailor Your CV: When you send us your CV, make sure it highlights your experience in special education and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Assistant Headteacher, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Passion: In your written application, let your passion for inclusive education shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles, especially with students who have special needs.
Proofread Before Sending: Before you hit send, give your application a good proofread. Typos and errors can distract from your amazing qualifications, so let’s make sure everything is polished and professional!
How to prepare for a job interview at School Staffing Solutions
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
As an Assistant Headteacher, you'll be leading curriculum development. Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest teaching strategies and how they apply to special needs education. Research the school’s vision and think about how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to mentoring staff and how you've contributed to school improvement. This will demonstrate your capability to manage and inspire others.
✨Understand the Needs of SEN Students
Familiarise yourself with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used to support these learners and how you can implement them in the new school environment.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's culture, challenges, and expectations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.