Assistant Headteacher

SMART Education Recruitment; West Midlands Combined Authority; On-site; GBP 69,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Assistant Headteacher to lead a specialist ASD provision in Harborne. This full-time role, starting in September 2025, is a 12-month maternity cover position. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting students aged 11 to 19 with complex needs, driving educational standards, and contributing to a culture of improvement. Join a supportive and collaborative leadership team dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of young people with additional needs. This is an exciting opportunity to inspire and develop staff while ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary aligned with leadership scale

Weekly pay through Smart Education

Professional development opportunities

Supportive and collaborative leadership team

Dedicated consultant for ongoing support

Qualifications

• Must have QTS and a valid Enhanced DBS.
• Previous leadership experience in a special school or SEN setting is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to drive teaching and learning standards.
• Support the Headteacher in school improvement and daily operations.
• Lead on behaviour management and student wellbeing.

Skills

Leadership

Behaviour Management

Safeguarding

Interpersonal Skills

Organisational Skills

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Child and Adult Enhanced DBS

Job description

Job Title: Assistant Headteacher
Pay Rate: L14 - £68,586 per annum
Location: Harborne
Hours: Full-time
Start Date: September 2025
Contract: 12-month Maternity Cover

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:

1. Competitive salary aligned with leadership scale
2. Weekly pay through Smart Education
3. Professional development opportunities
4. Supportive and collaborative leadership team
5. Dedicated consultant - Ongoing support throughout your placement

Expectations of the Assistant Headteacher role:

1. Provide strategic leadership to drive teaching and learning standards across the school
2. Support the Headteacher in the day-to-day running of the school and overall school improvement plan
3. Lead on behaviour management, safeguarding, and student wellbeing, ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment
4. Model outstanding classroom practice and provide coaching and mentoring to staff
5. Engage effectively with parents, external agencies, and stakeholders to support student outcomes
6. Contribute to curriculum development and assessment strategies tailored to students with ASD and complex needs

Job Requirements for this Assistant Headteacher role:

1. Must hold a valid Child and Adult Enhanced DBS (or be willing to apply for one)
2. Must have QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)
3. Previous leadership experience in a special school or SEN setting is essential
4. Proven track record of working with students with complex needs, including ASD and associated conditions
5. Strong understanding of safeguarding and statutory responsibilities
6. Exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills
7. 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.

About Smart Education

Smart Education is a specialist Education and Early Years recruitment agency, providing opportunities for Teachers, Teaching Assistants, SEND Support Staff, Nursery Nurses, and Tutors. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

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.