Assistant Headteacher - Behaviour

About the school

Bradford Beacon School is a brand-new specialist independent school for children aged 4–11 with autism and associated complex needs. Opened in September 2025 and set in a purpose-built environment, the school provides a safe, nurturing and inclusive setting where every child feels valued. Pupils follow a broad, enriched curriculum that develops communication, social, emotional and life skills alongside academic achievement. Personalised teaching and therapeutic support are delivered by a dedicated staff and clinical team. As the school grows to 42 pupils over the next two years, there is an opportunity to help shape its inclusive culture. Bradford Beacon celebrates every step of progress, empowering pupils to reach their full potential.

The school is part of Options Autism, which has provided specialist care and education for children and young people with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties for over 19 years. As part of Outcomes First Group, the organisation is committed to innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful outcomes.

The role

This is a rare opportunity to join Bradford Beacon School at the beginning of its journey and play a key role in shaping a thriving, inclusive school community. We are seeking an ambitious and inspirational Assistant Headteacher – Behaviour who is passionate about creating positive, nurturing environments where every pupil feels safe, valued and able to succeed.

Working alongside the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will help establish the culture, values and high expectations that will define the school from day one. The role offers the chance to influence whole-school practice, champion positive behaviour and inclusion, and support children with complex needs to build brighter futures.

The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8.30am–4.30pm. Salary is £45,000 per annum. The contract is permanent and term-time only, with a start date of January 2027. UK applicants only; no sponsorship is available.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the school’s behaviour strategy, embedding a culture of inclusion, respect and high expectations.
• Develop positive behaviour approaches that enable pupils with SEND to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
• Monitor behaviour, attendance and wellbeing data, using insights to drive early intervention and continuous improvement.
• Support the Headteacher in the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the school.
• Lead, coach and inspire staff, promoting consistent practice and professional development.
• Build strong relationships with pupils, families, external agencies and the wider multidisciplinary team.
• Champion safeguarding, ensuring the welfare, wellbeing and voice of every pupil remains central to school life.

Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), a recognised degree and NPQSL (or an equivalent leadership qualification).
• Successful leadership experience within an SEN, specialist or inclusive education setting.
• Passion for positive behaviour support, inclusion and improving outcomes for children and young people with additional needs.
• Experience using data to inform decision-making, improve behaviour and drive whole-school improvement.
• Ability to inspire, motivate and develop staff to deliver outstanding practice.
• Confident communicator who builds strong relationships with pupils, families, colleagues and external professionals.
• Resilience, strategic thinking and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Dedication to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Benefits & package

• Life assurance.
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions.
• Mental health support and physical health checks through the “Your Wellbeing Matters” programme.
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista) offering health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, plus hundreds of UK and international discounts.
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Electric Car Purchase Scheme.
• Critical illness cover.
• Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact details after signing in.