Assistant Headteacher
SEMH School | Newbury
Salary: Up to £56,000 per annum (dependent on experience – not pro rata)
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 4:30pm
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start Date: February 2026
UK applicants only – this role does not offer sponsorship
The Opportunity
As part of continued growth within a specialist education provision, we are recruiting an experienced and inspirational Assistant Headteacher to join the senior leadership team of a well-established SEMH school in Newbury.
This is a key leadership role, supporting the Headteacher in driving the school’s vision, strategic direction, and day-to-day operations. You will model best practice, champion inclusion, and help create a safe, high-performing environment where pupils and staff can flourish.
Key Responsibilities
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Support the Headteacher in communicating the school’s vision and strategic direction, promoting a positive, inclusive, and high-achieving culture
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Ensure consistently high-quality teaching and learning across all subjects and phases
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Lead on the delivery of a broad, structured, and coherent curriculum that meets the needs of all pupils
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Champion inclusion, ensuring pupils with SEN and disabilities can fully access the curriculum
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Oversee systems, policies, and processes to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant school operations, including safeguarding and welfare
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Performance manage staff and support professional development across the school
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Work closely with governors and external partners to ensure accountability, compliance, and continuous improvement
This role would suit a strategic, resilient, and compassionate leader with a strong commitment to improving outcomes for pupils with SEMH and complex needs.
The Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a candidate who:
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Holds UK QTS or equivalent and a relevant degree
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Has a strong understanding of SEN, including ASC, learning difficulties, and complex needs
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Is compassionate and resilient, with the ability to build strong relationships with pupils who may have experienced significant challenges
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Is a confident communicator and collaborative senior leader
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Is creative, flexible, and responsive to individual and whole-school needs
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Holds a full UK driving licence
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking specialist provision in a senior leadership role where you can make a genuine and lasting impact on pupils’ lives.
The role offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
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Life Assurance
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Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
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Mental health support and physical health checks
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A flexible benefits platform, including:
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Health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
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Hundreds of UK and international discounts
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Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
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Critical illness cover
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Family growth support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
