Headteacher
Step by Step School, near East Grinstead, East Sussex
Start Date: September 2026 or January 2027
Salary: Excellent and competitive, commensurate with experience
Are you an ambitious and values-led leader with the vision to shape the future of specialist education?
Step by Step School is seeking an exceptional Headteacher to lead, support and expand our outstanding independent specialist school for autistic children and young people aged 4–19. This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly regarded setting at a pivotal stage of growth and development.
Located in the beautiful East Sussex countryside, Step by Step School is an Ofsted-rated Outstanding school and registered charity, recognised for transforming lives through evidence-based, personalised education. Our specialist approach, rooted in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), enables pupils to build skills, maximise potential and prepare confidently for adult life.
With 36 pupils currently on roll and capacity for 40, the Board of Governors has an exciting vision to expand provision over the coming years, particularly in the younger age ranges, while broadening our impact through partnerships across the wider SEND sector.
The Opportunity
As Headteacher, you will provide both strategic leadership and operational excellence, ensuring the highest standards of education, care and safeguarding. You will inspire a committed multidisciplinary team of over 70 staff, including teachers, Behaviour Analysts, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and support professionals.
Working closely with Governors and Trustees, you will shape the next chapter of the school’s development, combining educational excellence with strong commercial awareness and sustainable growth.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
* Significant senior leadership experience, ideally in education or within a charity. Experience within SEND or specialist setting would be highly desirable.
* Strong understanding of autism and inclusive practice
* Experience of leading teams through change and growth
* Strong financial and strategic planning skills
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Commitment to safeguarding, equality and pupil outcomes
* Qualified Teacher Status and relevant leadership qualifications is desirable but not essential
Close date: 18th May 2026 - Noon
Shortlist Date: 21st May
Interview date: 4th and 5th June
How to Apply
For an informal discussion, or to receive a candidate pack, arrange a visit or request an application form, please contact our recruitment partner Cressida Johns at Academicis:
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📞 07733 628155 / 01223 907979