DescriptionEmployerLocation
About this Role
Assistant Headteacher - Keyham Lodge School
Salary: ISR Range L8 to L13 (£61,534 - £69,596). There may be room for negotiation dependent upon experience.
Contract Type: Permanent and Full-time Assistant Headteacher (1FTE)
🌟 Join a Leadership Team That’s Shaping the Future of SEMH Education 🌟
We are hosting an open evening on Wednesday 24 September 2025, 17:30pm - 19:00pm at Keyham Lodge School. Below are details of one of the exciting positions we have available. If you would like to attend our open evening, please contact the Office Manager, Emma Collin, at ecollin@ keyham.discoverytrust.org
Are you ready to lead with purpose, passion, and impact?
Keyham Lodge SEMH School is entering an exciting new chapter. With increasing demand for SEMH places across Leicestershire and the continued growth of Discovery Trust, we are building a dynamic leadership team to shape the future of specialist education.
We are seeking exceptional leaders for the role of Assistant Headteacher - individuals who are driven by inclusion, innovation, and a deep commitment to transforming lives.
This is a unique opportunity to:
1. Work alongside our newly appointed Headteacher—a home-grown leader with a powerful vision for change
2. Influence whole-school strategy and culture in a thriving SEMH setting
3. Be part of a Trust that values collaboration, development, and excellence
4. Lead with autonomy while benefiting from the support of a strong central team
Why now?
There has never been a more exciting time to join us. Our Trust is expanding, our school is evolving, and our commitment to SEMH provision is stronger than ever. We’re looking for leaders who want to be part of something bold, ambitious, and deeply rewarding.
We’re looking for:
5. Proven school leadership experience with a passion for SEMH
6. A strategic mindset and the ability to inspire and lead teams
7. A commitment to inclusive practice and pupil-centred outcomes
8. Courage, creativity, and a collaborative spirit
Occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required. A valid driving license and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents.
Ready to make a difference?
Apply now and help us shape the future of SEMH education in Leicestershire. Please refer to the attached Recruitment Pack, Job Description and Person Specification for full details and to support your application.
Why Join Discovery?
Here's what our current employees have said:
"Keyham Lodge is so much more than "school". Every student we welcome has their own story. Year after year we help young people to write a new one. Helping them to see that school isn't a word they should fear, and it's not always easy but one day they might look back and remember us with a smile. Memories that continue to inspire and transform. Lifelong learning which isn't just academic. Or tied up in blocks, and endless corridors of internal inclusion. Days on the beach, go-karting, or just singing together in the car on the way back. Give our students a way to feel that they too belong. Everything we do, we do for this, our common goal.
Tom Gill - Head of English
"Working at Keyham Lodge for the past 7 years has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As an Extended Leader, I’m proud to be part of a dedicated team that delivers outstanding education within a nurturing and supportive environment. What makes this school truly special is the genuine care we have for every student—we believe in their potential and work hard to help them realise it. We set high expectations because we want the very best for them and it’s a privilege to watch them grow in confidence and leave us prepared to achieve their future goals.
Marie-Claire Goodman - Assistant Headteacher
Professional Growth & Support
9. Ongoing professional development opportunities
10. Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations
11. Supportive leadership and a highly committed team
12. Highly committed and motivated Team
13. A role which has the opportunity to make a real difference whilst having fun
14. A established Central Services Team who support schools and wider colleagues
Work-Life & Wellbeing Benefits
15. Flexible working options
16. Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
17. Defined benefit pension scheme
18. Be an integral member of the team in a vibrant school
19. Create an outstanding learning environment for the success of all of our children
20. Play a significant part in continuing to develop our school
21. Be part of a wider community of Discovery Schools Trust
Additional Perks
22. Free parking
23. Cycle-to-work scheme
24. Gym discounts
25. Eyecare vouchers
26. Dental support
27. Retail discounts
28. Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale
Equal Opportunities & Accessibility
We welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.
Applications are welcome from all sections of the community regardless of gender identity, ethnic origin, disability, age or sexual orientation. If you require assistance completing your application, please contact hrsupport@ discoverytrust.org for support.
More about Discovery Schools Trust
Discovery Schools Trust is dedicated to improving learning and teaching by creating a culture that promotes excellence. The needs of all children are placed at the heart of all decision making regardless of the school they attend. Teaching and learning excellence are shared through learning networks, sharing of ideas and materials as well as leading practitioners between schools. Discovery has developed a school improvement system which focuses on improving outcomes for all children. It also places staff development, talent management and succession planning at the heart of achieving outstanding organisations.
Free childcare is offered to all Discovery employees; this provision is delivered by our Extended Services team, exclusively for wrap around care and holiday clubs (not pre-school). This is offered on a one-year trial basis and paid provision will take priority.
Please note that interviews for this position may be made earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to submit their applications promptly. Early submission will not only ensure consideration for the position but also increase the likelihood of being invited for an interview. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to receiving your application.
Safeguarding Statement
Safeguarding Statement:
We are committed to safeguarding our pupils; therefore, the successful applicant will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and references.
While we acknowledge the advantages of AI in crafting personal statements for applications, we strongly encourage and expect applicants to personalise and tailor responses. Please note that the Trust may utilise AI checking solutions during the application review process and will be considered when shortlisting.