Head Teacher

Aspire People; Hereford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading specialist boys' secondary school seeks an experienced SEN Headteacher to provide transformative leadership for students with SEMH, Autism, and trauma-related needs. This long-term position offers the opportunity to lead a dedicated team in a nurturing environment focused on improving student outcomes, collaboration, and emotional safety.

Qualifications

• Proven SEN leadership experience (Headteacher, Deputy Head).
• Up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding, SEND Code of Practice.
• Additional training in trauma or therapeutic approaches desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multi-disciplinary team supporting students with SEMH and Autism.
• Improve student outcomes and create emotionally safe environments.
• Collaborate with therapists, parents, SENCOs, and external agencies.

Skills

Leadership

Behaviour Management

Collaboration

Empathy

Resilience

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

NPQH or working towards

Job description

SEN Headteacher - Boys' Secondary School (SEMH, Autism, Behaviour & Trauma)
Location: Herefordshire
Start Date: Long-term role
School Type: Boys Only | Secondary | Specialist SEN
Contract: Full-time, Long-term (with potential for permanent placement)
Are you an experienced, passionate, and strategic SEN leader looking for a transformative opportunity?
A specialist boys' secondary school is seeking a dynamic SEN Headteacher to lead a dedicated team supporting students with SEMH, Autism, complex behavioural needs, and trauma-informed care.
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About the School:
* Small, nurturing setting for boys aged 11-16
* Focused on therapeutic, behaviourally aware education
* Experienced multi-disciplinary team supporting student regulation and engagement
* Committed to unlocking potential through empathy, structure, and firm boundaries
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The Ideal Candidate Will:
* Be a proven SEN leader (Headteacher, Deputy Head, or Assistant Head level) with extensive experience in:
o SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health)
o ASC (Autism Spectrum Condition)
o Challenging behaviour and dysregulation
o Trauma-informed practice and safeguarding
* Bring vision and resilience, with the ability to lead by example under pressure
* Have a track record of improving student outcomes and creating emotionally safe school environments
* Collaborate effectively with therapists, SENCOs, parents, and external agencies
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Essential Qualifications:
* Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or QTLS
* NPQH or working towards (preferred but not essential)
* Leadership experience in a specialist SEN or PRU setting
* Up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding, SEND Code of Practice, and behaviour frameworks
* Additional training in trauma, attachment, or therapeutic approaches highly desirable (e.g., Team Teach, MAPA, Thrive, PACE, etc.)
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We Welcome Applications From:
* Experienced SEN Headteachers or Deputy Heads from specialist or alternative provision settings
* Senior leaders with a strong background in behaviour and mental health support
* Heads with experience turning around complex schools or managing crisis-sensitive teams
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How to Apply:
If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to find out more, please submit your application below, including your CV and a short cover statement outlining your suitability for the role.
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Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.