Job description
Highfield is a school which caters for students with severe and complex learning difficulties and autistic spectrum conditions. We provide a student-centred curriculum, delivered in an inclusive environment. Students develop their communication, independence and social skills to make good or better personal progress towards their EHCP outcomes. We prepare them for the responsibilities and experiences of adult life, building resilience opportunities throughout the curriculum.
The Governing Body of Highfield School are seeking to appoint an ambitious and inspirational Assistant Headteacher with a passion for learning, and with proven leadership and management skills, to join the leadership team in this specialist secondary school for pupils with a range of severe learning difficulties including those with autism, and those with complex learning difficulties and associated behaviours. We are looking for someone who demonstrates:
- A proven track record in successful leadership of students with SEND
- Commitment, drive and passion for improving outcomes for students with SEND
- Ambition, enthusiasm, resilience and a desire to make a difference
- Commitment to continuous professional development and a sound understanding of the demands and responsibilities of an Assistant Headteacher
- Passion and commitment for the highest standards of achievement across the school
- High expectations of what can be achieved with outstanding classroom practice
- The ability to lead and motivate others
You will join a team of hardworking, friendly and committed staff, governing body and engaged parents. We offer a well-resourced environment and good opportunities for professional development. We can offer:
- A comprehensive induction process
- Automatic enrolment into the West Yorkshire Pension Scheme
- Automatic enrolment into our Employee Wellbeing Programme
- Motivated and hard-working students
- A School which is ambitious and aspirational for all
Highfield School is wholly committed to ensuring children and young people are fully supported and safe. We are dedicated to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare. All appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment practices and the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and checks regarding suitability to work with children.
Applications are handled on Teaching Vacancies (GOV.UK).
About this school
Highfield School
Foundation special school · Ages 11–19
- Pupils
- 208
- Avg teacher salary
- £48,102
- Pupil:teacher ratio
- 7.7:1
- Academy trust
- Education Ossett - Community Trust
Average (mean) teacher salary · DfE School Workforce Census 2024/25
View full school profileOfsted rating key
Not rated= no current Ofsted judgement — typically a new school, a recently-converted academy not yet inspected, or a school type Ofsted doesn’t grade.
Location
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Ossett, Wakefield, WF5 9BS
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- Salary
- L9-13
- Contract
- Permanent
- Working pattern
- Full time
- Posted
- 17 October 2026
- Closing date
- 22 November 2026
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