Associate Headteacher

Leader Group; Wolsingham; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an Associate Headteacher for a small SEMH School in Darlington, UK. The role involves providing effective leadership, driving school improvement, and managing staff development. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in education and a strong understanding of safeguarding and curriculum standards. This position offers a salary of up to £60,000 per annum along with various employee benefits.

Benefits

NEST enhanced pension scheme

Enhanced maternity and paternity pay

Blue Light discount card

Staff referral scheme (£500 bonus)

Fully funded training and professional qualifications

Wellbeing support and employee benefits package

Life assurance

Qualifications

• Proven track record of school improvement and leadership.
• Strong knowledge of the Ofsted framework and Independent School Standards.
• Thorough understanding of the SEND Code of Practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide effective day-to-day leadership and management of the school.
• Work closely with the Executive Headteacher on HR, leadership, and operational processes.
• Drive school improvement with a focus on the Independent School Standards.

Skills

School improvement leadership

Safeguarding expertise

Behaviour management

Curriculum planning

Staff development

Job description

Associate Headteacher - SEMH School

Location: Darlington

Salary: Up to £60,000 per annum

Leader Group is proud to be working in partnership with our client to recruit an enthusiastic, committed and inspirational professional for the role of Associate Headteacher for a small SEMH School. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced leader who is passionate about school improvement, staff development, and ensuring the very best outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide effective day‑to‑day leadership and management of the school.
• Work closely with the Executive Headteacher on HR, leadership, and operational processes.
• Drive school improvement with a focus on the Independent School Standards.
• Ensure high standards of behaviour, safeguarding, attendance, and punctuality.
• Take full responsibility for the safeguarding and welfare of all children.
• Promote positive relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies.
• Lead staff development, performance management, and deployment of support staff.
• Deputise for the Executive Headteacher when required.
• Champion inclusion and lead colleagues to support children in an independent setting.

Our Ideal Candidate

• Proven track record of school improvement and leadership.
• Experienced senior leader seeking their next challenge.
• Strong knowledge of the Ofsted framework and Independent School Standards.
• Expertise in safeguarding, curriculum planning, and staff development.
• Thorough understanding of the SEND Code of Practice.
• Confident leader in behaviour management and raising standards.

What We Offer

• Salary up to £60,000 per annum.
• NEST enhanced pension scheme.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
• Blue Light discount card.
• Staff referral scheme (£500 bonus split).
• Fully funded training and professional qualifications.
• Wellbeing support and employee benefits package.
• Life assurance.

Please note: This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check in line with our commitment to safeguarding and child protection. Please feel free to contact phone number removed for a confidential chat.