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- Tasks: Lead and support students with complex needs in a specialist ASD provision.
- Company: Smart Education is a dedicated recruitment agency for education professionals.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, weekly pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in SEN education within a supportive school community.
- Qualifications: Must have QTS and previous leadership experience in a special school or SEN setting.
- Other info: This role starts in September 2025 as a 12-month maternity cover.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 68586 £ per year.
Smart Education is recruiting for a passionate and experienced Assistant Headteacher to join a specialist ASD provision in Harborne, supporting students aged 11 to 19 years. This is a 12-month maternity cover position starting in September 2025. The successful candidate will play a key leadership role within the school, supporting students with complex needs and contributing to whole-school improvement.
Benefits of working as an Assistant Headteacher:
- Competitive salary aligned with leadership scale
- Weekly pay through Smart Education
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative leadership team
- Dedicated consultant – Ongoing support throughout your placement
Expectations of the Assistant Headteacher role:
- Provide strategic leadership to drive teaching and learning standards across the school
- Support the Headteacher in the day-to-day running of the school and overall school improvement plan
- Lead on behaviour management, safeguarding, and student wellbeing, ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment
- Model outstanding classroom practice and provide coaching and mentoring to staff
- Engage effectively with parents, external agencies, and stakeholders to support student outcomes
- Contribute to curriculum development and assessment strategies tailored to students with ASD and complex needs
Job Requirements for this Assistant Headteacher role:
- Must hold a valid Child and Adult Enhanced DBS (or be willing to apply for one)
- Must have QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)
- Previous leadership experience in a special school or SEN setting is essential
- Proven track record of working with students with complex needs, including ASD and associated conditions
- Strong understanding of safeguarding and statutory responsibilities
- Exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills
- Ability to inspire, lead and develop staff to achieve their full potential
This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking, supportive school community dedicated to transforming the lives of young people with additional needs.
If you’re an ambitious and compassionate leader ready to make a lasting impact in SEN education, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of a school where every day is an opportunity to make a difference.
Assistant Headteacher employer: Smart Education Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Smart Education Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former staff at the school or similar institutions. Engaging in conversations can provide you with insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in ASD education and leadership strategies. Being well-versed in current practices will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in previous roles. Highlighting your leadership experience with students who have complex needs will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during any discussions or interviews. Articulating your vision for supporting students with ASD and complex needs can resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the expectations and requirements for the Assistant Headteacher position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific needs of the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your previous leadership experience in special schools or SEN settings. Provide specific examples of how you've supported students with complex needs, particularly those with ASD, and how you've contributed to school improvement.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills in your application. Discuss your ability to inspire and lead staff, as well as your understanding of safeguarding responsibilities, to show you are a well-rounded candidate.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a strong cover letter that not only summarises your qualifications but also conveys your passion for working in SEN education. Make sure to express your commitment to making a positive impact on students' lives and your enthusiasm for joining the school community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Education Recruitment Ltd
✨Show Your Passion for SEN Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with students with complex needs. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your commitment to special educational needs and how you’ve positively impacted students in the past.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your previous leadership roles, particularly in special schools or SEN settings. Discuss how you've successfully led teams, managed behaviour, and contributed to school improvement plans, showcasing your ability to inspire and develop staff.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Research the school’s ethos and values before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, especially in relation to supporting students with ASD and complex needs.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be prepared to talk about your experience in engaging with parents, external agencies, and other stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve effectively collaborated to support student outcomes, ensuring a holistic approach to education.
