Head of Education

Details
Location

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Contract Type

Full Time

Salary

Up to £67,600 DOE per annum

Job Description

Summary:

Head of Education sought to lead and inspire at a school committed to autism education and student success.

About the School:

A school dedicated to providing specialist education and therapeutic care for young people with autism and complex needs. It is known for its outstanding Ofsted rating and comprehensive support services.

The Opportunity:

As the Head of Education, you will lead a team of professionals and shape the educational experience for students with autism. This is a pivotal role in driving quality education and student outcomes across the school.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage the quality of education across the school, ensuring alignment with curriculum standards and student needs.
  • Oversee assessment processes, including public exams and curriculum planning.
  • Develop and support staff, including ECTs, unqualified teachers, and SCITT trainees.
  • Implement and monitor literacy and numeracy initiatives across the school.
  • Ensure effective staff development and training in pedagogy and best practice for autistic students.
  • Work closely with governors and local advisory boards to support school improvement and strategic planning.
  • Implement systematic behaviour management systems with clear boundaries and positive reinforcement.
  • Support the Principal in deputising when required, ensuring continuity of leadership.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
  • Higher degree or evidence of continuous professional study
  • Clean and current car driving licence
  • Willingness to complete the NPQH
  • Senior Leadership experience at Assistant/Deputy Head level in a special or mainstream setting
  • Thorough understanding of the Education Inspection Framework and National Curriculum at KS3 to 5
  • Experience of timetabling a curriculum
  • Experience of working with Governors, Trustees and/or a local advisory board
  • Knowledge of child and adult safeguarding procedures
  • Good understanding of the SEND Code of Practice
  • Understanding of pedagogy, best practice and research-informed teaching and learning strategies for young people with autism
  • Knowledge and experience of school improvement and change management
  • Commitment to inclusive education providing opportunity for achievement for all
  • High level of oral and written communication skills

Preferred

  • Evidence of leadership CPD at senior level – i.e. NPQSL, NPQH or similar
  • SEND specific qualifications such as SENCo
  • DSL training and safer recruitment training
  • Successful experience of working effectively within specialist education with autistic students
  • Experience of leading EIF Section 109 and/or inspection of Independent School Standards
  • Experience working with Local Authorities
  • Ability to coach, mentor and deliver high quality training to ECT, unqualified teachers, instructors and SCITT trainees
  • Exams Officer/Head of Centre experience

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary up to £67,600 per annum
  • Full health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Generous holiday allowance and professional development opportunities