Assistant Headteacher - Inclusion

Salary/Rate:Inner London Leadership Scale L4 - L8

Job type:Permanent

Town/City:Barking and Dagenham

County:North East London

Type of Role:Assistant Headteacher

Job ref:9322

Post Date:02.05.25

Apply Now Create Job Alert

Scroll

Meet Our Recruiter

Elisha Read

SEND Consultant

02030114848

elisha@psinclusion.co.uk

About the Role

A unique leadership opportunity to shape inclusive excellence in Early Years and KS1

Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion

Salary: Inner London Leadership Scale L4–L8
Location: Barking and Dagenham
Interviews: Week commencing 19th May 2025

This is more than a leadership role – it’s a chance to transform lives.

An outstanding East London infant school, part of a dynamic and forward-thinking federation, is seeking an inspiring Assistant Headteacher with a passion for Inclusion. This is a pivotal role in a setting that believes inclusion is not just a policy, it is a way of being. The successful candidate will lead on all aspects of SEND and inclusive practice, ensuring that every child thrives and achieves, regardless of their starting point.

Serving a richly diverse community, the school is renowned for its nurturing ethos, ambitious curriculum, and commitment to professional excellence. It is a place where early education is taken seriously, where emotional literacy and belonging sit at the heart of the learning environment, and where leadership at all levels is cultivated and celebrated.

This role is ideal for an experienced SENCO or senior leader who wants to lead system-wide change and be part of an innovative team driving inclusive practice both within the school and beyond. You will work closely with the senior leadership team and external professionals to lead strategic development of provision for pupils with SEND, EAL, and other vulnerabilities, and will play a key role in shaping culture, policy, and pedagogy.

Are you a leader who can:

Champion inclusion across the whole school community with vision, integrity, and rigour
Lead and develop high-quality SEND provision that secures exceptional outcomes
Empower staff through coaching, collaboration, and professional development
Foster outstanding partnerships with families, external agencies, and local services
Work strategically within a values-led federation, contributing to wider school improvement
Bring deep knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and a commitment to continual learning

You will need:

QTS and substantial experience in a primary/infant setting
The National Award for SENCOs (or willingness to undertake it)
A track record of impact in inclusive leadership and/or SEND coordination
Emotional intelligence, resilience, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential

In return, the school offers:

Joyful, articulate, and curious children who love learning
A passionate, talented staff team committed to equity and excellence
Outstanding CPD pathways and support for career progression
The unique opportunity to shape inclusion in a school with a national and international reach
A collaborative, forward-looking federation that values innovation and invests in people

This is a career-defining opportunity for a leader who believes that inclusion is the cornerstone of excellence in education. If you're ready to make a genuine difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Curious to know more?
Get in touch for a confidential chat. Whether this is the role or one of several exciting next steps, we can explore what’s right for you.

You can:
Respond to this advert
Call Elisha on 0203 011 4848
Or upload your CV via our website

Now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities your experience has made possible.

Apply Now Create Job Alert

More jobs from this recruiter

View All

Higher Level Teaching Assistant - ARP for Autism

Barking and Dagenham

North East London

£100 - £130 PAYE

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – Additional Resourced Provision (ASC Focus) Location: Barking and Dagenham Pay: £100–£130 per day (PAYE) Contract: Full-time | Temp-to-perm | Flexible start date “Inclusion isn’t an initiative here — it’s part of how this school lives and breathes every day.” Within a welcoming primary school in Barking and Dagenham, there’s an Additional Resourced Provision (ARP) designed to support children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated needs. Far from being an afterthought, this ARP is an integral part of school life — a space where difference is understood, celebrated, and supported with real care. The school is now looking for a confident, experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) who can lead small group learning, deliver targeted interventions, and support children with autism in a compassionate and consistent way. This is a role where your expertise will be recognised — and your presence will make a daily difference. Your Role Will Include: Delivering structured, small group and 1:1 interventions to support communication, engagement and learning Adapting support in line with EHCPs, using visual aids, routines, and sensory strategies Assisting pupils with emotional regulation and sensory needs using child-centred techniques Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils through patience, encouragement and routine Collaborating with teachers, therapists and families to maintain a joined-up, consistent approach Confidently stepping in to cover lessons when needed, ensuring stability and continuity for learners We’d Love to Hear from You If: You have at least six months of experience working as a HLTA, ideally within a SEND or ARP setting You’ve supported children with autism and complex needs and can tailor your approach to suit individuals You are reflective, proactive and always striving to improve your practice You communicate with warmth, clarity, and calm — especially when situations are challenging You want to be part of a school that shares your values and supports your growth What This School Offers: A vibrant and genuinely inclusive ethos A well-resourced Additional Resourced Provision that’s central to the school community Strong leadership that actively supports and invests in their support staff Clear opportunities for progression and further training in specialist education A collaborative, kind and forward-thinking team culture Why Parker Smith Inclusion? We’re SEND specialists, not generalist recruiters — and that makes a difference. We work closely with inclusive schools to connect skilled professionals with roles that offer purpose, growth, and a chance to truly belong. Honest, people-first support throughout your journey Access to exclusive SEND opportunities across London PAYE only – no umbrella deductions or hidden fees Genuine advice from professionals who understand the sector inside out Interested in finding out more? Reach out to Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk for a confidential chat or send across your CV to apply. If you’re looking for a role where your experience matters, and where you can help shape a truly inclusive learning environment — this could be the perfect next step.

ARP SEN Learning Support Assistant

Havering

North East London

£90-£95 per day

Learning Support Assistant – Additional Resource Provision Location: Havering Pay: £85–£90 per day (PAYE) Contract: Full-time | Temp-to-perm | Start date: ASAP “To connect with a child, we first need to meet them where they are — not where we expect them to be.” In a welcoming primary school in Havering, there’s a dedicated space created with care and intention — an Autism Resource Provision designed to feel safe, supportive, and sensory-aware. To the pupils, it’s more than a learning space — it’s a place where they can simply be themselves. This is a specialist setting within a mainstream school, built to meet the unique needs of pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition. It’s not about quick results or fitting children into boxes — it’s about nurturing progress at a pace that respects each individual, celebrating every small step along the way. We are looking for a Learning Support Assistant who wants to be part of that journey. Someone who brings consistency, compassion, and an open mind — whether or not you’ve worked in a school before. A Typical Day Might Include: Supporting children aged 4–11 within a small, low-arousal classroom Encouraging communication through visual aids, objects of reference, and assistive tools Building trust through predictable routines and calm, encouraging support Assisting with transitions between tasks, activities, and different school areas Collaborating with teachers, therapists, and parents to ensure consistency and care Is This You? You may have worked with children or young people with autism — in schools, homes, care settings, or community roles You are naturally patient, empathetic, and keen to understand behaviour rather than manage it You value a calm, structured environment where small changes can mean big progress You’re looking for a purposeful role — something more than “just a job” You don’t need to have formal training — just the right attitude, willingness to learn, and a steady, caring presence What Makes This School Special: A purpose-built provision with sensory rooms, structured learning zones, and specialist resources A genuinely kind, supportive team that works collaboratively and lifts each other up Leaders who prioritise staff wellbeing and provide real opportunities for professional development Pathways into teaching or specialist careers in SEND for those who want to grow Why Join Parker Smith Inclusion? We’re not just filling roles — we’re helping shape inclusive environments where both students and staff thrive. With over 350 five-star Google reviews, schools trust us to connect them with people who care. What you can expect: Personalised support from SEND specialists who understand your goals PAYE-only payroll – no umbrella schemes or hidden deductions Honest, clear advice throughout your journey Access to meaningful long-term roles across inclusive and specialist schools Interested in finding out more? Reach out to Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk to apply or to have a confidential chat about where your skills might be the best fit. Even if you're still figuring it all out — this could be the right place to begin. Let’s find that together.

SEN Support Assistant - Temp to Perm opportunity

Havering

North East London

£90 - £100 per day

Job Title: SEN Support Assistant – Graduate / Career Pathway Opportunity Location: Havering Pay: £90–£100 per day (PAYE) Contract: Full-time | Term-time only | Temp-to-perm opportunity “A rewarding career in education begins with the right environment — and the right team behind you.” Are you a graduate, carer, or someone with transferable experience looking to build a long-term career in special educational needs (SEN)? This outstanding specialist school in Havering could be the perfect place to start. Set in a purpose-built site with excellent facilities, this school supports children and young people with a range of complex needs, including autism, learning difficulties, and sensory processing challenges. But what truly sets it apart is the team — warm, skilled, and deeply committed to supporting not only the pupils, but also the staff who care for them. This is an ideal role if you’re considering a future in education, therapy, psychology, or pastoral support. You’ll be guided by experienced colleagues and mentored in a hands-on environment where your growth is taken seriously. What You’ll Be Doing: Supporting pupils with a range of needs, including autism and communication differences Assisting in delivering tailored educational, therapeutic, and sensory-based activities Helping pupils regulate, engage, and feel emotionally and physically safe Supporting with personal care where required (training provided) Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and support staff Who This Role Would Suit: Graduates (Psychology, Education, Health & Social Care – all welcome) Carers or support workers with transferable experience Individuals seeking school-based experience ahead of a career in teaching, therapy, or educational psychology Compassionate, resilient, and reflective individuals with a genuine interest in SEN Why This School? Fantastic, modern facilities purpose-built for SEN learners A supportive team culture with strong mentoring and induction Opportunities to transition from temp to permanent roles A school that invests in people — values-led, inclusive, and deeply rewarding Why Parker Smith Inclusion? Specialists in SEND recruitment with a people-first approach PAYE only — no umbrella companies or hidden deductions Honest, long-term support from a knowledgeable and caring team To Apply: Send your CV to Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk and find out more about this fantastic opportunity.

PMLD Support Assistant

Barking and Dagenham

North East London

£85-£100

Job Title: PMLD Support Assistant Location: Barking and Dagenham Pay: £85–£100 per day (PAYE) Contract: Full-time | Term-time only | Long-term opportunity “True connection is built through presence, patience, and understanding — even in the most complex moments.” In a specialist school in the heart of Barking and Dagenham, no two days are the same. This is a setting that supports pupils with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), including complex medical and sensory needs. Many pupils are non-verbal, use wheelchairs, and require high levels of care and individualised support. The environment can vary — some classes are calm and sensory-focused, while others can be more physically and emotionally demanding. What remains consistent is the school’s commitment to every pupil’s dignity, safety, and emotional wellbeing. Here, communication may come through a glance, a movement, or a sound. Your role is to notice, interpret, and respond — building trust through consistency, empathy, and a calm, grounded approach. What You’ll Be Doing: Supporting pupils one-to-one or in small groups, following detailed education and care plans Engaging in sensory, therapeutic, and play-based activities tailored to each child’s needs Using alternative communication strategies such as PECS, visual timetables, and assistive technology Assisting with personal care, including feeding, toileting, and hoisting (full training provided) Helping pupils to feel safe, understood, and supported — especially in moments of emotional difficulty What We’re Looking For: No previous SEND experience required — just empathy, patience, and a willingness to learn Backgrounds in care, support work, or healthcare are an advantage Resilient, observant, and emotionally mature individuals who can remain composed in challenging situations Team players who are reflective, adaptable, and committed to inclusive education What You’ll Find at This School: A warm, inclusive school community with a strong sense of purpose Supportive leadership and a collaborative team environment A culture that values professional development and celebrates every small success Why Join Through Parker Smith Inclusion? We’re SEND specialists with a values-led, people-first approach PAYE only – no umbrella companies or hidden deductions Long-term placements with ongoing support from a knowledgeable, trusted team Honest, relationship-focused recruitment with your wellbeing at its centre To Apply: Send your CV to Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk to find out more.