Full Job Description
We put wellbeing first by giving our teams more time to recharge.
Job Title
Head of School
Location
Ashley Park School, Epsom, Surrey KT18 7LR
Hours
37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Salary
Up to £72,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Contract
Permanent | Term Time Only
Start
June 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
About the Role
At Ashley Park School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a safe, nurturing and ambitious environment. We are seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead our specialist learning community — a visionary leader who can inspire staff, empower pupils and shape a culture where every young person can achieve more than they ever thought possible. This is more than a leadership role — it’s your opportunity to drive meaningful change, influence lives and build a school where excellence, inclusion and wellbeing are at the heart of everything. As Head of School, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all areas of school life, ensuring the highest standards in education, safeguarding, wellbeing and school improvement. Working closely with staff, families, local authorities and external partners, you’ll create a culture that is aspirational, inclusive and child‑centred — where pupils feel valued, supported and inspired to succeed. You’ll lead a dedicated team, shape the future direction of the school and ensure Ashley Park School continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and young people.
What You’ll Do
* Lead the school to deliver exceptional outcomes across academic, personal and social development
* Create a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment with safeguarding at its core
* Drive high standards in teaching, learning, behaviour and therapeutic support
* Motivate and develop a talented team through effective recruitment, CPD and performance management
* Oversee strategic planning, self‑evaluation and continuous school improvement
* Build strong relationships with pupils, families, local authorities and external partners
* Ensure compliance with DfE, Ofsted and statutory requirements
* Support the school’s ongoing growth, sustainability and operational success
* Champion the values and vision of Acorn Education across the wider organisation
What We’re Looking For
* QTS or Degree equivalent required
* Inspirational leadership and a passion for transforming the lives of children and young people
* Deep understanding of SEND, safeguarding and high‑quality teaching and learning
* Strong strategic thinking, operational management and people‑leadership skills
* A commitment to excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement
About Us
Ashley Park School is a brand‑new independent specialist school in Epsom, Surrey, for autistic young people aged 11–19, with a capacity for 60 pupils. We provide a safe, supportive and inspiring environment where every pupil can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Personalised teaching, differentiated lessons and tailored therapeutic support ensure each pupil’s unique needs and abilities are met. Our curriculum combines academic study, vocational pathways and life skills, preparing young people to achieve their full potential and future aspirations.
Benefits
* 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
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