Job Description
Assistant Head (KS3–KS5)
?? Hanley School?? Reporting to: Head of School & Senior Leadership Team
About the Role
We are seeking an inspiring and experienced Assistant Head (KS3–KS5) to join our leadership team at Hanley School. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate leader to drive excellence across our Upper School, supporting young people with SEN and autism to achieve their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
You will play a key role in shaping a nurturing, inclusive environment where every student is empowered and every staff member is supported to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the strategic and day-to-day running of KS3–KS5, ensuring strong outcomes for all students
* Up to 50% teaching
* Promote and model outstanding SEN and autism practice across the school
* Drive high standards of teaching and learning through coaching, observation, and performance management
* Support and develop staff through mentoring, training, and collaborative working
* Monitor pupil progress, behaviour, wellbeing, and engagement, ensuring tailored support is in place
* Lead curriculum development, accreditation pathways, and provision mapping
* Oversee transition planning across key stages and into post-16 pathways
* Work closely with families, external professionals, and internal teams to achieve the best outcomes
* Contribute to whole-school improvement priorities and Ofsted readiness
* Act in the absence of the Head of School when required
What We're Looking For
We are looking for a confident, compassionate leader who:
* Has proven experience teaching pupils with SEN
* Has leadership experience (e.g., leading a department or whole-school initiative)
* Demonstrates a track record of school improvement and impact
* Has strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks and school improvement strategies (or willingness to develop)
* Can motivate, inspire, and develop others through coaching and leadership
* Builds strong relationships with students, staff, and stakeholders
* Is resilient, adaptable, and committed to continuous professional development
Essential Requirements
* Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and degree-level qualification
* Eligibility to work in the UK
* Enhanced DBS with barred list check
* UK driving licence and willingness to travel occasionally
How to apply?
Please complete an online application form in full, remembering to include all employment and education details. If you need any assistance or would like any more information please contact Betsy in the Aurora Group Recruitment Team at
Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks including an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check.
The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Aurora Group is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
The Aurora Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children and young adults in our care and is a disability confident and equal opportunities employer.
This advert could be taken down at any point in time without prior notice if the position is filled.
Please note that candidates that are shortlisted might be subject to an online search.