At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to deliver an inclusive curriculum for learners with complex needs.
- Company: Join a vibrant college in beautiful Hertfordshire, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, wellbeing support, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Enjoy a newly renovated space and access to a stunning countryside setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of young people while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND education and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 54333 - 56200 £ per year.
Location: St Elizabeth’s Sixth Form, Much Hadham, Hertfordshire (Just 10 minutes from Bishop’s Stortford and Harlow).
Contract: Permanent, full-time. Start Date: September 2026.
Salary: £54,333.37 – £56,200.16 per annum.
This role supports children, young people and adults with epilepsy, autism, and complex needs to live life to the full. Set within 60 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, our college provision is a vibrant, inclusive environment focused on preparing learners for adulthood.
We are now looking for an Assistant Head of College to join our leadership team and play a key role in shaping and developing our provision.
Please note: Due to our rural location, access to personal transport is essential.
About The RoleThis senior leadership opportunity requires an experienced educator ready to make a real impact. As Assistant Head of College, you will:
- Lead the development and delivery of a high-quality, inclusive curriculum across all pathways, ensuring learners progress, achieve and transition into adulthood.
- Lead and inspire a team of teachers and support staff, driving high standards of teaching and learning through coaching, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Work closely with the Deputy Head of College to contribute to quality assurance, curriculum planning and strategic development.
- Maintain a 50% teaching commitment to remain close to practice and model excellence in the classroom.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is an outstanding classroom practitioner with strong experience in SEND education.
- Has experience working with learners with complex needs and/or PMLD.
- Is a confident and inspiring leader, able to develop and motivate teams.
- Has strong curriculum knowledge, particularly within post‑16 / Preparation for Adulthood pathways.
- Is experienced in quality improvement, assessment, and driving learner outcomes.
- Can build strong relationships with families, therapists, and external partners.
- Is values‑driven and committed to making a meaningful difference.
- Supportive and inclusive team culture.
- Newly renovated space with a dedicated area for education staff.
- Structured induction, training and CPD tailored to SEN and post‑16 education.
- Enhanced DBS paid for by the school.
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme.
- Free on‑site parking and countryside setting.
- Access to wellbeing platform, discounts and staff benefits.
- Recommend a Friend bonus scheme.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and young adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check. This post involves regulated activity.
Equal OpportunitiesWe are an equal opportunities employer and actively welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you require reasonable adjustments, please contact us during the recruitment process.
Assistant Head of College employer: St Elizabeth's
Contact Detail:
St Elizabeth's Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head of College
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with SEND. They might know about opportunities or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching St Elizabeth’s Sixth Form thoroughly. Understand their values and how they support learners with complex needs. This will help you tailor your responses and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've inspired teams or improved teaching standards. We want to see how you can make a real impact as an Assistant Head of College.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our vibrant community at St Elizabeth’s.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head of College
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Assistant Head of College. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior leadership position, we want to see examples of how you've led teams and driven improvements in teaching and learning. Share specific instances where you've inspired others or made a significant impact.
Highlight Your SEND Experience: Since this role involves working with learners with complex needs, be sure to emphasise your experience in SEND education. Talk about your understanding of different needs and how you've successfully supported diverse learners.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Elizabeth's
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the curriculum specifics, especially around SEND education and post-16 pathways. Be ready to discuss how you would lead the development of a high-quality, inclusive curriculum that supports learners with complex needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific instances where your leadership made a difference in teaching standards or learner outcomes, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Inclusion
Be prepared to talk about your values and how they align with the college's mission. Share experiences where you’ve built strong relationships with families, therapists, and external partners, highlighting your dedication to making a meaningful impact.
✨Engage with Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss real-life scenarios related to classroom practice and quality assurance. Think through how you would handle challenges in the classroom or lead a team through a curriculum change, showcasing your problem-solving skills and practical approach.