Head of School

Education 365; London Borough of Croydon; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Education 365 is recruiting a Head of School for a specialist SEN school in South London. You will lead safeguarding, promote welfare, and ensure personalised learning and pastoral care tailored to each learner.

The role requires SMT leadership across diverse settings and a strong advocate for vulnerable children. The ideal candidate will bring experience in SEND, ASD/SEMH needs, and a track record of improving outcomes within challenging environments.

Qualifications

• Experience leading across multiple educational settings, including mainstream, AP, and special schools.
• Proven leadership within SMT and track record of school-improvement outcomes.
• Ability to advocate for vulnerable children and young people.

Responsibilities

• Lead safeguarding and promote welfare of all students.
• Oversee delivery of personalised education and pastoral care.
• Collaborate with families and external professionals to meet needs.
• Drive school improvement and uphold high professional standards.

Skills

Leadership

Senior Management Team

SEND expertise

ASD / SEMH experience

Job description

Are you a qualified teacher with prior school leadership experience?

Do you have a passion for the development of SEN pupils?

If so, please read on.

• Exciting Opportunity within a Specialist SEN School
• Opportunity for Further Development
• Immediate Interview Opportunities Available
• Supportive and Collaborative Leadership Team

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a specialist SEN school based in South London. The school provides a supportive and nurturing learning environment, with personalised education and pastoral care tailored to each pupil's needs.

The school supports children and young people who face barriers to learning, including those who have experienced disrupted education or difficulties in previous placements. Its focus is on building confidence, improving engagement and helping pupils make sustained progress.

Staff work collaboratively with families and external professionals to meet pupils' educational, social and emotional needs. Through strong relationships, consistent support and appropriate challenge, the school helps learners develop their independence and achieve their personal and academic goals.

As Head of School, you will play a vital role in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students, while upholding school policies and maintaining the highest standards of professional practice.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A strong background in working across a range of educational settings, including mainstream schools, Alternative Provision (AP), and special schools, showcasing flexibility and depth of experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience as part of a Senior Management Team (SMT), with evidence of contributing to school improvement and positive Ofsted outcomes.
• The confidence, capability, and professional judgement to thrive in a demanding yet fulfilling environment, serving as a strong advocate for vulnerable children and young people.
• Hands-on experience supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, learning difficulties, and trauma or attachment-related challenges.

This Head of School role calls for a dedicated leader driven by a commitment to transforming lives and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential.