Assistant Headteacher; Orchard High School

About The Role

Contract Type:
Permanent

Working Hours:
Full Time

Number of Positions: 1

Qualifications

Required:

Relevant degree and QTS

Start Date: 20th April 2026

Salary: £55,747 - £61,543 per annum

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Headteacher to join our fantastic team at Orchard House High School.

Orchard House High School opened in September 2025 and offers a rare and exciting opportunity to help shape a brand-new special school from its earliest years.

As the school grows year on year, we are seeking an exceptional Assistant Headteacher to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in building an ambitious, inclusive and nurturing school community.

Orchard House High School is a purpose-built SEND provision for pupils aged 11–19 with Significant Learning Difficulties (SLD) and/or Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). We are committed to providing outstanding education, care and preparation for adulthood for some of the most vulnerable young people in our community.

This is a permanent post on leadership terms payscale L4-8 £ 55,747-£61,543 per annum.

• Be a proactive member of the Senior Leadership Team, working closely with the Headteacher to secure the highest possible outcomes for students
• Take strategic responsibility for significant aspects of school leadership, contributing directly to school improvement, culture and ethos
• Support and challenge colleagues to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and assessment, rooted in evidence-informed practice
• Play a key role in developing a positive, inclusive and aspirational school culture, where students feel safe, valued and motivated to learn
• Lead, manage and develop staff through effective line management, coaching and professional development
• Work collaboratively with parents, carers, governors and external professionals to support students’ complex SEND needs
• Contribute to organisational effectiveness, including systems, processes, data analysis and resource management

• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a degree (or equivalent)
• Is an excellent classroom practitioner with a strong track record of impact
• Has proven leadership and management experience within the 11–18 (or 11–19) phase
• Shares our high expectations for pupils with SEND and a deep commitment to inclusion and equity
• Has the ability to inspire, motivate and support staff, leading with strong moral purpose
• Demonstrates resilience, flexibility and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, developing school environment
• Communicates effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including families and external agencies
• Experience of working in special schools or improving outcomes for students with SEN is highly desirable

• High quality CPD for all roles
• Bupa Level 1 Health Plan – annual cash back allowance for a range of everyday health care expenses
• Generous Pension Contribution – over 26% for teachers and over 17% for support staff
• Good holidays – teachers as per School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document; non‑teachers receive 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days with 5 years' service
• Cycle scheme – save up to 39% on a bike and accessories and get Strava for free
• Employee Assistance Programmes – including access to free counselling and 24/7 helplines
• Credit Union – regular savings, Christmas saving scheme and access to affordable loans
• Flexible working options – we’re happy to talk flexible working where possible
• Mental Health First Aid in every school
• Blue Light Card – discounts on holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones, and many more
• bYond cashback card – spend smarter with a prepaid cashback card for your everyday purchases

• Generous holiday allowance – enjoy up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays. Increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. Want more leave? You can purchase up to two additional weeks.
• A buzzing pension – you’ll be enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with plenty of options to top up your benefits. Includes life cover of three-times your salary as a…