Job Description
Assistant Headteacher, L8-L12
Would you relish the opportunity to be part of the leadership team in a highly inclusive and innovative establishment? Willow Bank School is an LA-maintained SEMH provision for pupils aged 8-16 which has recently moved into a purpose-built new building with outstanding facilities. We believe Willow Bank School is a centre of best practice for personal development, pastoral care and teaching and learning.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Assistant Headteacher with the vision, drive, and leadership skills to build on the school’s success while bringing fresh perspectives and a distinctive leadership style. We are seeking a natural leader who is passionate about leading on the school systems, interventions, and staff development required to secure excellent standards of pupil behaviour and personal development. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape and drive the Willow Bank approach to ensure that every pupil engages positively in school life.
The successful candidate will be a key figure in leading the culture and ethos of our school, ensuring that pupils are motivated to learn. If you are a highly effective leader with a natural leaning towards collaborative working, who will help to fulfil the potential of staff and children alike, and you are able to use an adaptive style to best meet the needs of the whole school community, we would love to hear from you.
This is a fantastic opportunity for you to be part of the next chapter in the development of Willow Bank School, shaping the lives of young people in St Helens.
Working at Willow Bank School
Joining our school means becoming part of a vibrant, supportive community where every day brings new opportunities to inspire and be inspired. Here, you’re not just a teacher or staff member — you’re a vital part of a team dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child.
Our staff enjoy:
- A collaborative and friendly environment where ideas are valued and shared
- The rewarding experience of seeing students grow, succeed, and develop confidence
- Opportunities for continuous professional growth and leadership development
- The chance to make a real difference, shaping the future of our students
- A culture that balances high expectations with genuine care and respect
Full Job Description & Person Specification Documents are included within the Assistant Headteacher Applicant Pack.
We strongly encourage visits to school prior to applying to ensure that you understand our setting and pupils. We will be offering tours of our school with the Headteacher on:
- Tuesday 14th April 2pm – 3pm
- Friday 17th April 9:30am – 10:30am
- Monday 20th April 9:30am – 10:30am
Please email Mrs Rachel Savage (Business Manager) to book a place via willowbank@sthelens.org.uk
At Willow Bank School, we believe that happy, motivated staff create the best learning experience. That’s why we prioritize wellbeing, celebrate achievements, and foster a strong sense of belonging. Willow Bank School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Please note we reserve the right to close the advert early should we receive a sufficient number of applications and encourage you to apply early, to avoid disappointment.
This is an Enhanced Disclosure post.
Be scam aware: St Helens Council will never ask applicants to share payment information or charge recruitment fees when applying for vacancies at our schools. If in doubt, contact schoolpayroll@sthelens.gov.uk
We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. The Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within selection.
