Interim Head

Interim Headteacher (SEMH/Autism) – Dudley

£300 – £370 per day

Contract until April 2026 (potential to go full time)

Start: ASAP

We are seeking an outstanding
Interim Headteacher
to lead a specialist 11–16 SEMH school in
central Dudley
. This small but complex setting supports students with
SEMH needs, autism, EHCPs and associated challenging behaviours
. With approximately
30 students
,
high staffing ratios
, and
maximum class sizes of 6
, the school requires a leader who can make an immediate impact.

About the Role

This is a hands-on, highly strategic interim position. We are looking for someone who can:

• Hit the ground running and rapidly establish stability
• Rebuild and reshape the senior leadership team
• Strengthen systems, processes and expectations
• Re-align staff around the school's mission, values, belonging and inclusive practice
• Embed a trauma-responsive, therapeutic and relational approach
• Lead with confidence, clarity and compassion in a complex setting

You will be supported by a committed staff team and have the autonomy to set the direction of travel for the remainder of the academic year.

School Context

• SEMH/Autism specialist provision (11–16)
• Approx. 30 students
• High staff-to-student ratios
• Central Dudley location, on-site parking
• Students attend 9:30am–2:00pm, giving additional time for leadership/admin
• Headteacher hours approx. 8:30am–4:00pm, term-time

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a substantive, proven leader.

Essential:

• Significant Headteacher / Principal / Senior Leadership experience in specialist or alternative provision (not just short-term or acting roles)
• Strong background in SEMH, autism, and complex needs
• Demonstrable experience improving school culture, structure, and outcomes
• Ability to lead confidently in challenging environments
• QTS

Desirable:

• NPQH
• Experience of turning around or stabilising a provision
• Knowledge of therapeutic/trauma-informed education

Why This Role?

• Opportunity to make a meaningful, immediate impact
• Small, close-knit setting where decisions can be actioned quickly
• Professional autonomy to restructure and re-establish strong leadership foundations
• Leadership/admin time built into the day due to pupil timetable

If you are interested in this role, please apply here or contact Issy Eaden on for more information.