Overview
We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Headteacher to join Upton Grange School, part of Options Autism within Outcomes First Group. This role supports pupils with complex needs and aims to deliver high-quality, creative learning that maximises pupil achievement. The position offers a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours) while receiving full-time pay. Location: Upton Grange School, Slough SL3 7LR (not pro rata). Salary: Up to £85,000 per annum. Hours: 38.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Contract: Permanent, Term Time only. Start: January 2026. UK applicants only. The role does not offer sponsorship.
Responsibilities
As Headteacher, you will:
* Promote a relentless focus on high quality, creative learning that meets pupils’ educational needs and maximises achievement.
* Provide leadership with an infrastructure of support from central services (Finance, Resourcing, HR, IT) and a network of Headteachers across schools, alongside central school improvement support.
* Lead in delivering statutory requirements defined by the DfE, Ofsted and other external bodies, aiming for the highest inspection ratings.
* Inspire and manage a motivated staff group committed to excellence and ongoing professional development.
* Support the commercial success of the school, including occupancy, cost management, and growth planning.
* Engage in effective strategic and operational planning, self-evaluation, and school improvement delivery.
* Communicate a shared vision aligned with the Acorn Group strategy to inspire students, staff, and the wider school community.
Essential qualifications
* At least three years’ experience as a senior leader in a specialist school for pupils with complex communication needs.
* Qualified Teacher Status or equivalent.
* Willingness to extend personal and professional development.
* Ability to lead with a clear vision and understand that leadership includes safeguarding, pupil outcomes, staff motivation, cost management, regulatory compliance, and growth plans.
Desirable qualifications
* Completion of NPQH.
* Experience of performance management, appointing, managing and inducting staff.
* Experience in curriculum planning across a range of ages and abilities.
About Us
Upton Grange School is the Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 setting for pupils with diverse needs. The school uses a range of teaching strategies and smaller class sizes to address individual learning needs. It is part of the Hillingdon Grange group of schools, located over four sites, providing education from early years to KS2 with a focus on autism-specific learning. The location is in Slough, within commutable distance of Maidenhead, Twickenham, and surrounding areas. Outcomes First Group is a leading provider in care and education for autistic pupils and those with complex needs. In 2024, Outcomes First Group was certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running. A safeguarding-focused employer, we conduct checks including enhanced DBS for successful applicants.
Benefits
* Comprehensive reward package including Life Assurance and a Pension scheme with flexible contribution options.
* Wellbeing support through mental health services and physical health checks.
* Access to Vista Flexible Benefits Platform with health and wellbeing benefits, UK/overseas discounts, Cycle to Work, Electric Car Purchase Scheme, and more.
* Family Growth Support with enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.
Safeguarding and recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All applicants will be subject to safeguarding checks and enhanced DBS where applicable. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of suitable applications is received. All stages of the recruitment process comply with Keeping Children Safe in Education requirements.
How to apply
Apply now to join the team at Upton Grange School and be part of a forward-thinking group delivering high impact education for pupils with complex needs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr