Job Title: Head of School
Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Location: New Barn School, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8HZ
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday–Friday
Rota: 8:30am–4:30pm (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri) | 8:30am–5:00pm (Wed)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW, and others will soon join in. We are seeking an exceptional Head of School to provide visionary leadership at New Barn School, ensuring outstanding outcomes for pupils and young people while driving excellence across every aspect of school life.
Operating within the Options Autism framework, you will lead the strategic and operational direction of the school, ensuring it meets its aims, remains fully compliant with regulatory requirements, and aligns with wider group strategy. This is a rare opportunity to shape a school culture where children thrive, staff feel inspired, and high standards are the norm.
Ensure every child and young person achieves their full academic, personal and social potential through high-quality provision, targeted support and aspirational pathways beyond school
Lead the overall performance, culture and direction of the school, embedding a shared vision aligned with Options Autism strategy
Maintain a safeguarding-first culture that promotes wellbeing, positive behaviour and emotional security for pupils and staff
Meet all statutory, DfE and Ofsted requirements, driving continuous improvement through self-evaluation and school improvement planning
Oversee strategic and operational planning, ensuring strong financial management, sustainable growth and full occupancy
We are looking for a visionary and empathetic leader with a strong track record in specialist education. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
At least three years’ senior leadership experience within SEN/SEMH settings
Experience leading a special school or specialist provision
Proven experience working with complex autism, including pre-verbal pupils
A background in primary education
A full UK driving licence
Extensive experience developing staff, leading performance management and building high-performing teams
New Barn School, part of Options Autism, provides inclusive, nurturing education for autistic children and young people with complex needs across three sites. We deliver personalised learning, therapeutic support, and vocational opportunities tailored to each pupil’s Education, Health and Care Plan. Pupils learn in small, supportive settings that promote confidence, independence, and emotional wellbeing. Built on strong partnerships with families, New Barn empowers every learner to thrive and prepare for life beyond school.
For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
“Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
Hundreds of UK and international discounts
Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
*Subject to successful probation. Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.