Deputy Head- SEMH provision - Barking and Dagenham

Negotiable - Permanent

Date Posted: Wednesday 03 June 2026

, Ref: 13038

Deputy Head 

SEMH provision 

September 

This is an inspiring, therapeutic service that works across London. They have a no exclusion policy and support the hardest to reach, high risk and most vulnerable young people. They supporting young people who may have been out of formal education for a significant amount of time and are unable at this time to cope with learning in a classroom.

These young people have an SEMH and/or ASC diagnosis, alongside complex additional needs. They may be at considerable risk of exploitation or been exposed to extreme violence and abuse in their homes.

This service has a high success rate in that young people are eventually are back in full time education or employment, and on top of that thriving, able to regulate their emotions and begin to process their trauma. An example of this is a young person with previous low school attendance, multiple exclusions, PTSD, and extremely aggressive behaviour. After being assigned a specialist mentor and working together, this young person has now transitioned to a specialist school, has a 93% attendance record, is part of restorative groups helping him to process his trauma and is thriving with a bespoke curriculum.

What you’ll bring:

  • Proven experience in primary curriculum leadership and school improvement

  • Resilience and confidence in supporting children with SEMH, ASC, and complex needs

  • A calm, consistent approach to behaviour and staff development

  • Ability to lead by example and build trust across a multidisciplinary team

  • Experience in a specialist setting is ideal, but mainstream leaders with strong SEND understanding are warmly welcomed

Whether you're an experienced SEND leader or a senior leader in a mainstream setting with significant SEMH exposure, this role offers the rare opportunity to help shape a therapeutic learning environment for children who need consistency, empathy, and leadership that inspires hope.

Why work with Parker Smith Inclusion?

  • Specialist SEND recruitment agency - We put people first, taking the time to get to know you & finding you the right career opportunity.
  • Access to a wide range of job opportunities - We partner with multiple schools, local authorities & educational organisations and will do the job search for you.
  • 400+ five-star Google reviews from educators - Rated for our efficiency and genuine support in finding you the right role.
  • Know exactly what you will be paid - Transparent pay - PAYE only.
  • Expert advice - Our Consultants are experts in SEND recruitment, providing career and interview advice to support your career.
  • One application - No need to complete several application forms, complete one form & register with us.
  • Ongoing career support - free CPD to support your development.
  • Long-term & permanent roles - We exclusively offer long-term or permanent SEND roles. 

If this sounds like the role you have been waiting for then please get in touch, however if this doesn't fit what you are looking for, I can also help you find the right role for you, please call 02030114848 and ask for Faye or email faye@psinclusion.co.uk

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