Job Description

Headteacher - Independent Specialist School (Autism & Early Years) | West London

Lead a therapeutic, autism-specialist independent school where every child's progress is personal.

We're seeking an experienced

Headteacher / Head of School

to lead a small, Ofsted-registered

independent SEN provision in West London

. You'll oversee teaching, therapy integration and safeguarding, working closely with a multidisciplinary team to shape an inclusive, high-quality learning environment.
If you're a compassionate leader with

QTS

and proven

SEND or Early Years leadership

experience, this is your chance to make a lasting difference.

At our client's Ofsted-registered independent school in

West London

, education and therapy work hand in hand to unlock potential for children with autism and developmental delays. We provide tailored learning programmes, rooted in evidence-based practice, that help each pupil build confidence, communication, and independence.

We're now seeking a

Headteacher (Principal)

to lead this unique setting through its next phase of growth -- combining strategic leadership, safeguarding excellence, and a passion for inclusive education.

About the Role

As Headteacher, you will:

Provide strong leadership across the school and early years provision, ensuring high standards and compliance with

Independent School Standards (ISS)

and the

EYFS framework

. Champion a culture of

safeguarding, wellbeing, and continuous improvement

. Oversee teaching, learning, and therapy integration, working closely with the Clinical Director and senior team. Develop staff capability through coaching, mentoring, and clear performance frameworks. Manage Ofsted readiness and ensure governance, data, and quality systems are robust. Foster positive relationships with parents, local authorities, and wider partners. You'll work closely with the

Clinical Director

and wider multidisciplinary team to ensure that education and therapy are fully integrated -- aligning learning, communication, and wellbeing goals across the provision
You'll be the

Named Principal

with Ofsted for the school and

Registered Manager

for the early years setting -- a rare opportunity to shape both environments under one vision.

About You

You'll bring:

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

- essential. Proven leadership experience as a

Headteacher, Deputy Head, or Senior Leader

within a specialist, independent, or inclusive mainstream setting. A deep understanding of

SEND and autism-specific education

, with knowledge of

ISS

and

EYFS

frameworks. Excellent safeguarding expertise (DSL or Deputy DSL experience ideal). A collaborative, reflective leadership style -- flexible, child-centred, and resilient. NASENCo, NPQH, or NPQ-SENCO qualifications (desirable).
Experience in or openness to

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

or therapy-integrated learning would be an advantage.

Why Join?

Opportunity to shape a growing, high-quality independent school with a strong therapeutic ethos. Work alongside a passionate multidisciplinary team. Competitive salary (depending on experience) plus 25 days holiday + birthday off. Ongoing CPD and professional development investment. Supportive, values-led culture where innovation and impact are encouraged.

Ready to make a lasting difference?

Apply now to lead a school where education and therapy truly come together to change lives.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 75,000.00 per year

Licence/Certification:

QTS (required)
Work Location: In person