At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance and were putting wellbeing first.
Thats why were proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. Job Title: Deputy Headteacher and Curriculum Lead
Location: New Options School - Castle Gate School, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4DU
00 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata )
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Build a school. As part of our exciting expansion, Options Autism is opening a brand-new specialist school in Guildford designed to support children and young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs.
We are now seeking a passionate and visionary Deputy Headteacher & Curriculum Lead to help shape this new provision from the very beginning. This is more than a leadership role its a rare opportunity to help design a school culture rooted in inclusion, creativity, and compassion, where every pupil can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
As Deputy Headteacher and Curriculum Lead, you will play a pivotal role in establishing and leading an exceptional learning environment. Working closely with the Headteacher, youll co-create the schools ethos, strategic direction, and educational excellence.
Youll take the lead in designing and delivering a forward-thinking, inclusive curriculum that reflects our pupils diverse needs and interests ensuring that every learning experience is meaningful, aspirational, and empowering.
Lead on the design, development, and implementation of an innovative, inclusive curriculum
Champion high-quality teaching, learning, and assessment across the school
Coach, mentor, and inspire teachers to deliver outstanding, pupil-centred lessons
Monitor, evaluate, and continually improve the quality of education provision
Ensure all pupils have personalised learning pathways tailored to their strengths and needs
Act as a senior leader, deputising for the Headteacher where required
Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, external professionals, and the wider community
Youre a proven school senior leader with a deep understanding of SEN and a passion for transforming the lives of young people with autism and complex needs.
UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
A successful track record of senior leadership in a school setting
In-depth understanding of curriculum development and quality assurance in education
Experience supporting children and young people with autism, learning difficulties and/or complex needs
A commitment to inclusive, person-centred education
Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Head of Six Form, Whole School etc.
Experience working within a specialist or SEN setting
Familiarity with inspection frameworks and school improvement planning
A flexible, creative and emotionally intelligent leadership style
We are open to considering experience gained in any education setting
This is an incredible opportunity to help build a school where every child is understood, supported, and celebrated for who they are. If youre ready to lead with purpose, inspire excellence, and make your mark on a brand-new chapter in specialist education wed love to hear from you.
Opening in September 2026, this brand-new school in Guildford is part of the Options Autism group, a leading provider of specialist education individuals with complex needs. The school will support up to 40 pupils aged 1118, offering a safe, structured, and inclusive environment tailored to meet a wide range of needs.
Our schools are unique environments, each one having its own special atmosphere and range of opportunities and resources. Our teachers enjoy becoming part of their schools family, exploring the potential of the building and environment and getting to know the brilliant pupils in our care.
For over 16 years Options Autism have 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 setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
Why join Options Autism?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so youll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
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 your contributions
Your Wellbeing Matters access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package thats right for you, including:
~ A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
~100s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
~ Cycle to Work Schemes
~ Electric Car Purchase Scheme
~ Critical illness cover
~ Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.