Job Description
Deputy Headteacher – SEMH Alternative Provision
Location: (Essex/Suffolk Border)Salary: Competitive, dependent on experienceContract: Full-time, Permanent
About the Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a highly regarded alternative provision to recruit an exceptional Deputy Headteacher. This is a rewarding leadership opportunity for an experienced education professional passionate about supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the Headteacher with the strategic and operational leadership of a specialist setting that is committed to helping pupils achieve beyond their dreams.
About the School
Our client is a well-established alternative provision set within a unique rural environment near the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Essex/Suffolk border. The school supports pupils aged 11–16 who have faced challenges in mainstream education, including exclusion and disrupted schooling.
The provision prides itself on:
* Creating a safe, nurturing, and structured environment
* Delivering a curriculum that balances academic achievement with personal development
* Offering tailored support to re-engage pupils with education
* Providing opportunities for life skills development, community engagement, and off-site learning
* Maintaining strong partnerships with parents, carers, and local authorities
With a small cohort of approximately 24 pupils, the school is able to deliver a highly personalised and impactful educational experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the Headteacher with the leadership and management of the school
* Lead on teaching, learning, and curriculum development
* Ensure high standards of behaviour, safeguarding, and inclusion
* Contribute to staff development and performance management
* Work collaboratively with external agencies, families, and local authorities
* Help drive improvements in attendance, engagement, and pupil outcomes
* Support outreach and reintegration pathways into mainstream education where appropriate
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a candidate who:
* Has proven leadership experience within SEMH, SEND, or alternative provision settings
* Demonstrates a strong track record of improving outcomes for vulnerable learners
* Possesses excellent knowledge of safeguarding and behaviour management
* Is a compassionate, resilient leader with a relational approach
* Can inspire both pupils and staff to achieve their full potential
* Values collaboration with families and multi-agency professionals
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to join a forward-thinking and supportive leadership team
* A chance to make a genuine impact on the lives of young people
* Ongoing professional development and progression opportunities
* A unique working environment with small class sizes and a personalised approach
Apply Now
If you are an ambitious and dedicated leader looking for your next step in a specialist setting, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion.