Head of School

Head of SchoolLocation: Thrapston, Northamptonshire (NN14)Provision: Alternative Provision (KS3 KS5)Contract: Full-time, PermanentSalary: Competitive, dependent on experience (Leadership scale)The RoleWe are seeking an inspirational and resilient Head of School to lead our Alternative Provision in Thrapston, supporting students across Key Stages 3 to 5 who require a highly personalised, trauma-informed approach to education. This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for the strategic, operational, and pastoral leadership of the school, ensuring that all students are safe, engaged, and able to achieve meaningful academic, vocational, and personal outcomes.The successful candidate will be passionate about inclusion and committed to improving life chances for young people who have experienced barriers to mainstream education, including SEMH needs.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide strong, visible leadership and set a clear vision for the school aligned with alternative provision best practiceLead and support staff to deliver high-quality, personalised education for KS3 KS5 learnersEnsure effective behaviour management strategies underpinned by consistency, positive relationships, and restorative practiceOversee safeguarding, attendance, and pupil wellbeing, ensuring statutory and regulatory complianceWork closely with local authorities, commissioners, parents/carers, and external agenciesMonitor progress against EHCP outcomes, academic targets, and personal development goalsManage day-to-day operations, including staffing, timetabling, and resource allocationDrive continuous improvement through self-evaluation and quality assuranceThe Ideal CandidateProven leadership experience within an alternative provision, PRU, SEN, or similar settingStrong understanding of SEMH, trauma-informed practice, and behaviour supportExperience working with KS3 KS5 learners, including vocational and post-16 pathwaysConfident managing complex behaviours while maintaining high expectations and compassionExcellent communication and relationship-building skillsClear understanding of safeguarding, SEND legislation, and Ofsted frameworksResilient, reflective, and committed to inclusive educationWhat We OfferThe opportunity to lead and shape a growing alternative provisionA supportive leadership structure and committed staff teamSmall cohorts allowing for meaningful relationships and impactOngoing professional development and leadership supportThe chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of vulnerable young peopleHow to ApplyTo apply, please submit a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and your vision for leading an alternative provision supporting KS3 KS5 students.All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ s on the Teaching Personnel website for details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date. Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance Keeping Children Safe in Education this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website. #J-18808-Ljbffr