Head of School

  • Thrapston
  • Permanent
  • Mon Mar 2 16:20:49 2026
  • HEADNORTH

Head of School –SEMH Provision

  • Location: Thrapston, Northamptonshire
  • Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum
  • Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

School Staffing Solutions are recruiting for a Head of School on behalf of a Alternative Provision based in Thrapston, Northamptonshire. This small bespoke setting supports 35 pupils, focusing on those who need a nurturing environment to help reintegrate into mainstream education.

The staff offer a holistic approach, supporting the pupils' academic and emotional growth, with the help of a talented team including the Deputy Head, teachers, and support staff. You will also receive guidance from regional and national teams within our group.

What We Offer:

  • Professional Development: We support professional qualifications, in-house training, and paid qualifications. Last year, we invested around £3.5k per colleague!
  • Financial Security: Death in Service Insurance (4x your salary).
  • Family-Friendly Policies: Enhanced Maternity/Paternity Leave.
  • Health & Wellbeing Cashback: Access to Medicash for you and your dependants, covering costs for eye tests, optical, dental, prescriptions, and holistic treatments up to £900 annually.
  • Recognition Awards: Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Recognition Awards.
  • Referral Bonus: £500 for referring top talent.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Access to MiRewards for discounts on shopping, travel, and more.
  • Weekly Drop-ins: Connect with our Senior Leadership Team, including the Managing Director, every week.

What We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for an experienced, dynamic Head of School to lead the team and continue the work of inspiring and engaging learners. The ideal candidate will bring creativity, proactive leadership, and a passion for helping students achieve their ambitions.

  • Engagement Skills: Ability to inspire and engage learners, supporting them to achieve their goals.
  • Emotional Support: Passion for making a tangible, positive impact on young people—particularly those requiring additional support.
  • Academic Background: Degree in a relevant subject area is essential.
  • Core Teaching Qualifications: QTS or QTLS (or overseas equivalent) is required. NPQH or working towards it is desirable.
  • Experience: Proven leadership experience (Head of Department, SLT, or Headteacher) in an educational setting, ideally within alternative provision. Experience managing staff teams and small school cohorts is essential.
  • Teaching Subjects: Strong understanding of core subject delivery (English, Maths, Science), with a track record of improving teaching and learning outcomes.
  • Knowledge: Familiarity with working with learners with SEN and additional needs, plus in-depth knowledge of the alternative provision landscape, school compliance, and Independent School Standards.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive in addressing challenges and implementing effective solutions to enhance pupil outcomes.
  • Communication: Strong interpersonal skills, able to engage with staff, learners, and external stakeholders.
  • Promotion of Values: Clear commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity, wellbeing, and British values.

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people and contribute to a dynamic, supportive school community? If you're passionate about education, leadership, and empowering students to reach their potential, we want to hear from you! Contact jennifer@school-staff.co.uk or call 07977 178199