Deputy Headteacher

Job Title: Deputy HeadteacherLocation: BirminghamHours: Full-timeStart Date: September 2025Salary: L17 – £72,162

Smart Education is recruiting on behalf of a forward-thinking specialist school in Birmingham for a dedicated and experienced Deputy Headteacher to join their leadership team from September 2025. This full-time role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact in a well-established setting that supports students aged 11–19 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and complex needs.

This is a key leadership position within the school, working in close partnership with the Headteacher to continue driving school improvement, maintaining high standards in teaching and learning, and ensuring a safe, nurturing and aspirational environment for all pupils.

Benefits of working as a Deputy Headteacher:

• Competitive salary aligned with Leadership Scale – L17 £72,162

• Opportunity to play a pivotal role in a specialist setting

• Access to ongoing CPD and leadership development

• Supportive and inclusive school culture

• Dedicated consultant providing guidance and support throughout your placement

Key Responsibilities of the Deputy Headteacher:

• Support the Headteacher with the strategic leadership and operational management of the school

• Lead on whole-school improvement initiatives and contribute to the School Development Plan

• Line manage and develop middle leaders to ensure consistent high-quality teaching across all key stages

• Oversee safeguarding and child protection procedures as Deputy DSL, ensuring compliance and best practice

• Lead on behaviour for learning, attendance, and student wellbeing

• Contribute to curriculum innovation and ensure its effective delivery for learners with ASD and associated needs

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with parents, carers, external agencies, and wider stakeholders

• Promote an inclusive, positive school culture that celebrates progress and personal development

• Deputise for the Headteacher when required, including managing school operations and representing the school in external forums

Candidate Requirements:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is essential

• Extensive experience within SEN or specialist settings, including leadership responsibilities

• A proven record of improving outcomes for pupils with complex needs, including ASD

• Clear and up-to-date understanding of safeguarding and SEND statutory guidance

• A confident, collaborative leader with the ability to inspire, mentor and hold staff to account

• Outstanding organisational, communication and interpersonal skills

• A commitment to continuous school improvement and a child-centred approach to leadership

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious school leader looking to progress their career in a specialist environment where you will be empowered to shape the direction of the school and make a measurable difference every day.

About Smart EducationSmart Education is a specialist education and early years recruitment consultancy, working with schools and settings across the West Midlands. We provide high-quality teaching and support staff across mainstream and SEND education and are committed to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of children and young people.

If you're ready to take the next step in your leadership journey and have the vision, resilience, and drive to support outstanding outcomes for young people with additional needs—we’d love to hear from you. Apply today to join a school where every child is known, valued and supported to succeed.