Overview
Head of School role at Options Autism, part of Outcomes First Group, based in St Helens. 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Salary up to £70,000 per annum depending on experience (Not pro rata). Permanent, Term Time Only. UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
We are implementing a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, allowing one day less per week (or equivalent hours) while maintaining full-time pay. Some schools have already introduced 4DWW; others are preparing to roll it out as staffing levels allow. This is an opportunity to join #teamOFG as part of a broader commitment to wellbeing and staff balance.
Responsibilities
* Lead with heart and purpose to drive excellence across all aspects of the school, fostering an environment where outstanding outcomes, innovation, and wellbeing co-exist.
* Inspire a high-performing team to deliver a rich, inclusive curriculum with therapeutic and tailored approaches that unlock each student’s abilities and aspirations.
* Build a culture of continuous improvement and ensure compliance with Ofsted and DfE standards to achieve exceptional inspection results.
* Embed transformational leadership to create a nurturing, safe, and motivating environment for pupils and staff.
* Oversee a vibrant, engaging curriculum that meets high standards of teaching and learning.
* Embed inclusive strategies and positive behaviour approaches to empower learners and enrich school life.
* Lead, develop, and manage a team through effective performance management and professional growth.
* Forge strong partnerships with families, local authorities, and community partners to enhance student experiences and opportunities.
You Will Bring
* A qualified teacher (QTS or equivalent) with at least 3 years of senior leadership experience in special education.
* Senior Leadership experience in a special school and Primary education experience.
* A proven track record of managing curriculum, assessment, and delivering outstanding outcomes.
* Skilled in leading staff performance, development, and fostering a collaborative, motivated team culture.
* Deeply experienced in supporting children and young people with complex or challenging behaviours.
* A visionary, empathetic leader ready to innovate, inspire, and drive lasting positive change.
About Us
For over 16 years Options Autism has provided support and education to pupils and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in delivering new approaches with measurable outcomes. In 2024, Outcomes First Group was certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.
Why join Options Autism?
We place the outcomes of pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake each day knowing your role will have a positive impact. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and a fully enhanced DBS where appropriate.
Benefits
Your health and wellbeing are important, with a reward package including:
* Life Assurance
* Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
* Wellbeing support services and physical health checks
Market-leading benefits through Vista include:
* Health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
* Discounts UK and abroad
* Cycle to Work schemes
* Electric Car Purchase Scheme
* Critical illness cover
* Family Growth Support with enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Note: You’ll work 80% of contractual hours for 100% of pay; 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit.
Outcomes First Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All stages of the recruitment process are subject to safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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