Headteacher for Specialist Provision

Salary: £60,000 – £80,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

Location: Bromley – London

Contract Type: Full-time (Term Time), Permanent

Reports to: Proprietress of Schools / CEO

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Headteacher to  lead a new branch for an established specialist school, dedicated to supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The successful candidate will have a strong background in education, leadership experience in a specialist setting, and a passion for providing high-quality, inclusive education for students with diverse needs.

As the Headteacher, you will be responsible for strategic leadership, curriculum development, staff management, and ensuring compliance with Ofsted, DfE, and SEND Code of Practice. You will play a pivotal role in fostering a positive, safe, and high-achieving learning environment while working closely with staff, parents, and external professionals.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & School Development

As the headteacher you will:

• Provide strong leadership and direction to ensure the  school’s continued growth and success
• Develop and implement the school’s strategic vision and development plan in line with Ofsted and SEND Code of Practice requirements.
• Lead and manage whole-school improvement initiatives, ensuring high standards of teaching and learning
• Work collaboratively with local authorities, external agencies, and stakeholders to enhance opportunities for students.
• Drive a culture of excellence, innovation, and inclusion, ensuring all students receive a high-quality education tailored to their needs.

Curriculum Teaching & Learning

As the headteacher you will:

• Oversee the development and delivery of a broad, balanced, and adapted curriculum tailored to students with SEND, including EQUALS, TEACCH, Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) pathways, and life skills.
• Ensure the curriculum is personalised to meet students’ Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) and individual needs.
• Promote the use of alternative communication methods, including Makaton, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), and assistive technologies.
• Promote the use of alternative communication methods, including Makaton, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), and assistive technologies.
• Implement effective assessment and progress tracking systems, ensuring that students achieve their maximum potential.
• Lead and support the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) in ensuring all statutory requirements for SEND provision are met.
• Lead and support the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) in ensuring all statutory requirements for SEND provision are met.

Compliance, Governance & Financial Management

• Ensure compliance with Ofsted, DfE, SEND Code of Practice, and safeguarding regulations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for EHCP reviews, risk assessments, and pupil progress reports.
• Manage the school’s budget and resources effectively, ensuring financial sustainability and value for money.
• Provide regular reports to the Board of Directors, detailing school performance, development plans, and key priorities

Person Specification
Essential Criteria:

We are looking for Headteacher with:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Proven leadership experience within a SEND or specialist education setting.
• Strong understanding of SEND legislation, including EHCPs, EQUALS curriculum, and alternative communication methods (Makaton, PECS, AACs).
• A track record of successfully raising student attainment and improving school performance.
• Knowledge of safeguarding policies and child protection procedures.
• Excellent staff leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with parents, carers, therapists, and external agencies.
• Strong strategic vision and commitment to inclusive education.

Desirable Criteria:

• Desirable Criteria:
• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) qualification.
• Experience with EQUALS, Preparing for Adulthood (PfA), and TEACCH frameworks.
• Training in Team Teach, Positive Handling, and Trauma-Informed Practices.
• Knowledge of assistive technology and alternative learning strategies.
• A proven ability to successfully lead an Ofsted inspection.
• Strong strategic version and commitment to inclusive education.

Application Process

If you believe you meet the criteria for this exciting Headteacher opportunity, please apply now or contact Apex Educ8 directly.

• All applicants must hold appropriate qualifications and training.
• For teaching roles, a formally recognised teaching qualification is essential.
• If you do not hear back within 5 working days, unfortunately you have not been successful. However, we will keep your details on file and continue to support your job search within education.

Safeguarding Commitment

Apex Educ8 follows stringent safer recruitment procedures. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check.