Full job description
Deputy Headteacher & SENCo
Specialist SEN School — Crewe, Cheshire
Role at a Glance
Salary: Leadership Scale - £45,000 - £60,000 depending on experience
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Location: Crewe
Start Date: September 2026
About the Role
We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our specialist SEN school in Crewe. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced and passionate professional who is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Working closely with the Headteacher, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our school's strategic direction — ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning, safeguarding, and pastoral care.
About the School
Our school provides specialist education for pupils with a range of complex needs, including:
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH)
- Communication difficulties
- Learning disabilities
We deliver a nurturing, inclusive, and ambitious curriculum that enables every learner to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Headteacher in strategic leadership and day-to-day school management
- Lead on teaching, learning, curriculum development, and assessment
- Drive continuous school improvement across all areas
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive school culture
- Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding, wellbeing, and behaviour management
- Coach, mentor, and develop staff to maximise their professional growth
- Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, external agencies, and local stakeholders
- Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (or DSL where appropriate)
Essential Requirements
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Significant leadership experience within a school setting
- Proven experience working with pupils with SEND
- Strong understanding of SEND legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice
- Demonstrable success in raising standards and improving outcomes
- Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
Desirable
- National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) or equivalent leadership qualification
- Experience within a specialist SEN school or alternative provision
- Knowledge of autism-specific approaches, SEMH provision, and therapeutic practices
What We Offer
- A rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of young people
- A supportive and collaborative leadership team
- High-quality professional development and leadership training
- A positive and inclusive working environment
- Competitive salary on the Leadership Scale
How to Apply
- You can apply for this role below or get in touch with us directly. All applicants require the appropriate qualifications.
- If you are not contacted within 5 working days, unfortunately, you have been unsuccessful in this role. All applicants must have a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting work. Full assistance will be provided.
- By applying for this role, you are consenting to Engage Education Ltd storing your details in our fully encrypted database, in line with the GDPR requirements.
Pay: £45,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Pay: £45,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
