Assistant Headteacher (SEND)

We are seeking an exceptional, ambitious and values‑driven leader to join our dedicated and experienced Senior Leadership Team as Assistant Headteacher (SEND) at our Outstanding secondary special school for pupils with moderate learning difficulties (MLD).

This exciting role carries strategic responsibility for SEND across the whole school, including fulfilling the statutory role of SENCo. The successful candidate will lead and further develop inclusive practice, contribute significantly to senior leadership decision‑making, and play a key role in shaping the next phase of the school’s development. The post will particularly appeal to experienced leaders aspiring to Deputy headship who wish to deepen their leadership experience within a highly supportive and successful school environment.

We welcome applications from candidates who are:

• Experienced leaders from special or mainstream settings

• Primary or secondary specialists with relevant leadership experience

• Strongly committed to inclusive practice and high‑quality SEND provision

The successful candidate will join a highly skilled, collaborative and committed staff team and will play a key role in driving continued excellence and shaping the school’s future development.

Why join us?

• Consistently judged outstanding by Ofsted (2009, 2012, 2016, 2018, 2024)

• A thriving and ambitious school, exceptionally well‑placed to move confidently into its next phase of development, supported by outstanding facilities and a superb, committed staff team

• Robust support, coaching and development for senior leaders

• A strong commitment to staff wellbeing, with staff voice valued and promoted through an active staff voice group

• Working within a forward‑thinking, values‑driven and highly supportive Trust (WMAT) that invests in leadership development

Pre‑visits are essential. To arrange a visit, please contact us on 01252 725059.

Please complete an online application on our recruitment platform. We look forward to receiving your application to join our dedicated and passionate team.

Closing date: Midday on Friday 15th May 2026.

Interview date: Thursday 21st May 2026.

We reserve the right to interview candidates before the closing date.

The Abbey is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. Enhanced DBS, Children’s Barred List and Right to work in the UK checks are required for this post.

The Abbey School is committed to creating a diverse workforce. We’ll consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, religion, belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, age, disability, marriage or civil partnership.