Head of School

Are you a passionate education leader who believes every young person deserves a chance to thrive?

We are working on behalf of a small independent school, looking for a new Head of School to make a real difference in the lives of pupils who need a nurturing, supportive, and inspiring environment to succeed.

This is your opportunity to lead a dedicated team, shape an inclusive school culture, and drive meaningful change – all while enjoying a workplace that truly values your wellbeing, growth, and work-life balance.

Title: Head of School

Salary: £40,000 to £50,000 plus benefits

Hours: 08:30am- 5:00pm

Location: Northamptonshire

Responsibilities:

• Lead the day-to-day operational management of the school, ensuring it remains inspection-ready and meets all statutory requirements.
• Oversee staff, student outcomes, curriculum delivery, and pastoral care.
• Ensure adherence to school policies and contribute to a positive learning environment.
• Deliver a broad, engaging, and high-quality curriculum.
• Actively promote the school’s values and achievements within the wider community.
• Develop and sustain a strong extra-curricular offer.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll be someone who brings passion, leadership, and strategic insight to your role:

• Engagement Skills: A talent for inspiring learners and fostering ambition.
• Emotional Insight: Deep empathy and commitment to supporting young people
• Academic Background: A degree in a relevant subject.
• Teaching Qualifications: QTS or QTLS (or equivalent); NPQH is desirable.
• Leadership Experience: Strong experience at SLT, Head of Department, or Headteacher level-ideally in alternative provision.
• Curriculum Strength: Strong understanding of English, Maths, and Science
• Sector Knowledge: Familiar with Independent School Standards, alternative provision, and learners with SEN.

Benefits

• Wellbeing Support: Access to fitness, yoga, mindfulness content and counselling services.
• Admin Light
• Generous Holidays & Flexibility
• Professional Development: Approximately £3.5k invested per colleague last year.
• Financial Security: Death in Service Insurance
• Family-Friendly Policies: Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Leave.
• Health & Wellbeing Cashback
• Recognition Awards, discounts & Rewards
• Referral Bonus: £500 per person
• Senior Leadership Access

Important Notice

Dovetail and Slate is a specialist education recruitment company. If this role isn’t quite right, we welcome your CV and a call to explore other opportunities.

We are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory vetting, including a right to work check and, where relevant, an enhanced DBS, PVG (Scotland), or EWC (Wales) check, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Dovetail and Slate Ltd (11351060) acts as an Employment Agency and an Employment Business under the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003.

We are an equal opportunities employer. By applying, you consent to your data being processed for recruitment purposes in line with our Privacy Policy.

Because education matters. Dovetail and Slate Limited (11351060) acts as an Employment Agency.