Senior School Leader

Description:

Yiewsley Grange School, part of Options Autism and the Hillingdon Grange group of schools, is seeking an experienced Headteacher to lead its specialist educational provision for pupils with autism, complex needs, and a range of learning difficulties. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a team dedicated to providing exceptional, individualized education in a supportive, structured environment.

As Headteacher, you will play a pivotal role in creating a high-quality, creative, and inclusive learning environment that meets pupils’ educational needs while fostering their personal and academic growth. You will oversee all aspects of school management, including curriculum planning, staff development, safeguarding, regulatory compliance, and operational success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure outstanding student outcomes tailored to individual abilities and needs.

• Maintain a safe, inclusive environment for pupils and staff.

• Lead the school to achieve the highest inspection ratings (Ofsted and DfE standards).

• Inspire and motivate staff, fostering a culture of continuous personal and professional growth.

• Oversee school occupancy (100%), manage costs effectively, and implement growth strategies.

• Develop and execute strategic plans, self-evaluation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Collaborate with central services for finance, HR, IT, and school improvement support.

Essential Requirements:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a senior leader in a specialist school for pupils with complex communication needs.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to create and implement a clear vision for the school.

• Commitment to personal and professional development.

• Comprehensive understanding of leadership processes contributing to pupil outcomes, safety, cost management, and regulatory compliance.

Desirable:

• Completion of NPQH (National Professional Qualification for Headship).

• Experience in staff recruitment, induction, and performance management.

• Experience in planning curriculum across diverse age groups and abilities.

About Yiewsley Grange School & Options Autism:

Yiewsley Grange provides specialist education for 185 pupils using tailored teaching strategies in smaller class sizes, following the Equals Semi-Formal Curriculum and equivalent functional skills qualifications. The school operates across four sites, offering education from early years to KS2, with a strong focus on individualized learning in an autism-specific environment.

Options Autism, part of the Outcomes First Group, has over 16 years of experience providing care and education to pupils and adults with autism and complex needs. Outcomes First Group has been recognized as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for five consecutive years.

Benefits:

• Life Assurance

• Pension scheme with contribution options

• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – extensive mental and physical health support services

• Market-leading flexible benefits platform (Vista) including:

  • Health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits

  • Discounts in the UK and abroad

  • Cycle to Work Scheme

  • Electric Car Purchase Scheme

  • Critical illness cover

  • Family Growth Support including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support