Interim Deputy Headteacher – Specialist SEN School

Interim Deputy Headteacher – Specialist SEN School

The following information provides an overview of the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed for this role.
Location: London
Start: ASAP
Contract: Interim (until end of year) with potential for permanent appointment from September
Rate: £300–£400 per day

A well-established specialist SEN school in London is seeking an experienced Interim Deputy Headteacher to support the day-to-day leadership of its secondary provision. This is a hands-on role within a fast-paced but highly supportive environment, working closely with an experienced senior leadership team and school business manager.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident and resilient senior leader who thrives in specialist settings and can quickly establish credibility with staff and pupils.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day operational leadership across the secondary provision

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), ensuring safeguarding practices are robust and compliant

• Lead and support teaching staff, including line management and performance oversight

• Manage and support HR processes, including staffing, absence and employee relations matters

• Maintain high standards of behaviour, attendance and pupil engagement

• Work closely with the Headteacher and wider leadership team to ensure consistency and quality of provision

• Support ongoing school improvement priorities within a specialist SEN framework

About You

• Proven experience at senior leadership level (Deputy Head, Assistant Head or equivalent)

• Strong background within SEN / specialist education settings (e.g. ASD, SEMH, complex needs)

• Confident managing staff, handling HR issues and leading teams in a dynamic environment

• Up-to-date safeguarding knowledge and experience operating as a DDSL (or DSL)

• Able to quickly build relationships and bring stability, structure and direction

• Resilient, proactive and solutions-focused

The Setting

• Specialist SEN provision with a dedicated and experienced staff team

• Supportive senior leadership presence on site

• Engaged pupils and a strong emphasis on holistic development

• Busy, rewarding environment where strong leadership has real impact

This role is available for an immediate start, with a strong likelihood of continuing through to the end of the academic year and potential to transition into a permanent post from September. xwzovoh

For more information or to express your interest, please contact Stephen at KPI Education.