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:9391
Post Date:09.05.25
Scroll

Meet Our Recruiter

About the Role

Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion – A Career-Defining Leadership Opportunity

Location: Barking & Dagenham
Salary: Inner London Leadership Scale L4–L8
September Start - Permanent 


Inclusion isn’t a strategy here—it’s the foundation.

This is more than a leadership role. It’s an opportunity to shape inclusive excellence in Early Years and Key Stage 1, and to influence a whole-school approach that celebrates every child’s potential.

An exceptional infant school in East London—part of a progressive and values-driven federation—is seeking a visionary Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion. The successful candidate will lead SEND provision, champion inclusive practice, and contribute to strategic school improvement at a senior level.


Why This School?

Serving a vibrant, multicultural community, the school is known for its nurturing ethos, high expectations, and deep-rooted belief that education should be both joyful and just. It’s a place where early childhood development is treated with the seriousness it deserves—where well-being, emotional literacy, and equity are central to every classroom.

You will join a team that is committed to breaking down barriers to learning and building a culture where every child is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.


Who We’re Looking For

This is an ideal next step for an experienced SENCO or senior leader who is ready to drive meaningful, system-level change.

You will:

Lead whole-school SEND and inclusive strategy with clarity, care, and credibility
Develop and embed best practice across EYFS and KS1 provision
Coach, support, and upskill colleagues across the staff team
Build strong partnerships with families, agencies, and the wider community
Contribute to federation-wide improvement through collaboration and innovation


What You’ll Bring

  • Qualified Teacher Status and substantial primary/early years experience

  • National Award for SEN Coordination (or willingness to complete it)

  • Proven leadership in SEND, inclusion, and/or pastoral development

  • Strong working knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice

  • Emotional intelligence, resilience, and a passionate commitment to equity


In Return, You’ll Receive

  • A permanent role in a school where inclusion is truly prioritised

  • Inspiring pupils who are eager to learn and thrive in a supportive environment

  • A team of dedicated, skilled professionals who believe in collaborative leadership

  • Access to high-quality CPD and opportunities for career advancement

  • A chance to influence not just one school, but a forward-thinking federation with growing reach and reputation


This is your chance to lead with purpose—transforming lives while shaping inclusive practice from the inside out.


Ready to learn more? Let’s start the conversation.
For a confidential chat, call Elisha on 0203 011 4848
Email your CV to elisha@psinclusion.co.uk
Or apply via our website

Whether you’re ready to step into this role or are considering your next move into inclusive leadership, Parker Smith Inclusion is here to support and guide you.

Let’s find the role that recognises your impact—and amplifies it.

More jobs from this recruiter

View All

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.

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.

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.