. This role does not offer sponsorship.
As part of our continued growth, we are seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead the next chapter at New Barn School—a role with genuine influence, autonomy and the opportunity to create lasting impact for children with autism.
This is not just a leadership role. It’s a chance to shape a school, inspire a team and transform outcomes for pupils who deserve the very best.
About the Role
We are looking for a dynamic, values-driven and emotionally intelligent leader to provide strategic and operational leadership at New Barn School. Operating within the Options Autism framework, you will set the vision, direction and culture of the school—ensuring excellence in education, care and safeguarding while building a community where pupils flourish and staff feel proud, supported and inspired.
You’ll have the freedom to lead with creativity and confidence, while being fully supported by a strong group infrastructure. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a specialist provision and leave a legacy of meaningful, measurable change.
Key Responsibilities
1. Champion outstanding outcomes for every child and young person—academically, socially and emotionally
2. Lead the strategic vision, culture and day-to-day performance of the school in line with Options Autism values
3. Create and sustain a safeguarding-first culture where wellbeing, safety and positive behaviour are embedded
4. Inspire, develop and retain exceptional staff, building a high-performing, motivated leadership and teaching team
5. Ensure full compliance with Ofsted, DfE and statutory requirements, driving continuous improvement
6. Oversee strategic planning, financial sustainability and growth, ensuring strong occupancy and future readiness
About You
You’ll be a confident, compassionate and ambitious school leader who thrives in specialist education and believes deeply in inclusive, pupil-centred practice. You will bring:
7. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
8. A minimum of three years’ senior leadership experience within SEN/SEMH settings
9. Proven experience leading a special school or specialist provision
10. Extensive experience working with complex autism, including pre-verbal pupils
11. A primary education background
12. Strong curriculum leadership and assessment expertise
13. A track record of developing people, leading performance and building exceptional teams
14. A full UK driving licence
15. A collaborative, innovative mindset and a genuine passion for making a difference
About Us
New Barn School, part of Options Autism, provides inclusive, nurturing education for autistic children and young people with complex needs across three sites. We deliver personalised learning, therapeutic support, and vocational opportunities tailored to each pupil’s Education, Health and Care Plan. Pupils learn in small, supportive settings that promote confidence, independence, and emotional wellbeing. Built on strong partnerships with families, New Barn empowers every learner to thrive and prepare for life beyond school.
For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. 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.
16. Life Assurance
17. Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
18. “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
19. Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:Health, wellbeing and insurance benefitsHundreds of UK and international discountsCycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase SchemeCritical illness coverFamily Growth Support, including 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.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
#1