Assistant Headteacher

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.

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 R 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.

How To Apply

•        Complete the online application form through the job vacancies section of the St Helens Council website: St Helens Borough Council | Jobs | Search here for your perfect career - Home Page

•        You must also submit a letter of application, no more than two A4 sides in length, in which you exemplify how you demonstrate the skills, knowledge and qualities outlined in the person specification for our Assistant Headteacher role. Please attach a copy of your application letter as a supporting document on the St Helens Council online application form.

Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the appropriate application form. Please complete all sections of the application form as clearly and fully as possible. CVs will not be accepted in place of a completed application form. References may be requested prior to interview following shortlisting.

Closing Date for Applications: Thursday 23rd April 2026

 

Proposed Interview Dates: It is anticipated that interview process will take place over Thursday 30th April and Friday 1st May 2026.

 

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.