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- Tasks: Lead curriculum development and ensure high-quality teaching in a new SEN school.
- Company: Exciting new SEN school opening in Backwell, Bristol.
- Benefits: Full training, health cash back plan, bike to work scheme, and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special needs.
- Qualifications: Recognised teacher training qualification and experience in special education.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to creating an inclusive learning 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 recruiting an Assistant Head of School for a brand new SEN School opening 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 environment for children and young people aged 5-19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
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.
Responsibilities
- 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.
Qualifications
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
Experience
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 or 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.
What’s 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
How to Apply
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 in Bristol employer: School Staffing Solutions
Contact Detail:
School Staffing Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who have experience with special needs. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission to create an inclusive environment for students with ASD and SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven curriculum development or improved teaching standards in your 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 here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Assistant Headteacher role. Highlight your experience in special education and leadership, as these are key for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about working in a nurturing environment for children with ASD and SEMH needs. Share your vision for curriculum development!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you've achieved in your previous roles. Use specific examples of how you've improved teaching standards or supported staff development.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Once you send us your CV, we’ll get back to you with an application form to complete. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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 educational strategies and frameworks, especially those tailored for special needs education. Prepare to discuss how you can implement these effectively in the new school.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous leadership roles and how you've successfully managed teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved teaching standards or mentored staff, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead in a new environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially in complex scenarios involving students with ASD and SEMH needs. Think of past experiences where you resolved conflicts or implemented effective strategies, and be prepared to discuss them in detail.
✨Communicate Your Vision
Articulate your vision for creating an inclusive and aspirational learning environment. Be clear about how you plan to support both students and staff, and how you’ll contribute to the overall school improvement strategy. This will show your commitment to the school's mission.
