Head of Alternative Provision

Interim Head of Alternative Provision
Interim contract | Start ASAP
On-site – North London
£400 – 450 p/day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
 
CVs are being reviewed immediately, and interviews will be taking place week commencing 15 June 2026.
 
Step into a pivotal leadership opportunity where your impact will be felt immediately. As Interim Head of Alternative Provision, you will report directly into the Executive Headteacher and take full operational and strategic ownership of a well‑established provision supporting around 150 students. With five senior leaders reporting into you, this is a highly visible, hands-on role at a critical point in the school’s journey, including preparation for a potential Autumn Term Ofsted inspection.
 
You will be trusted to provide stability, pace and direction from day one. This is an interim role for a confident, credible school leader who thrives in complex environments and knows how to drive improvement at speed. If you are passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable learners and want a role where your leadership genuinely matters, this is one to act on quickly.
 
Your role as Interim Head of Alternative Provision:

• Lead and inspire the day-to-day running of the provision, setting clear expectations and high standards
• Drive school improvement, quality assurance and operational performance across all areas
• Own Ofsted readiness, including self-evaluation, evidence, staff confidence and inspection preparation
• Ensure excellence in safeguarding, behaviour, attendance and student outcomes
• Develop senior leaders, holding your direct reports to account and building a culture of continuous improvement

 
Your experience as Interim Head of Alternative Provision:

• Proven Headteacher or senior school leadership experience within Alternative Provision, SEND or specialist settings
• Strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks and inspection preparation
• Demonstrable impact leading improvement in complex, high‑need environments
• Confidence managing senior teams and influencing a wide range of stakeholders
• Deep understanding of safeguarding, SEND legislation and compliance requirements

 
You will be a visible and resilient leader who can quickly build relationships with staff, students, parents and external partners, including local authorities. You will bring calm authority, clarity of direction and a relentless focus on improving outcomes for young people with additional needs.
 
If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who would be a strong fit for this Interim Head of Alternative Provision role, please get in touch with Lucy Connick or Jordan Groves on 0117 313 7110 today or apply now.
 
We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation, so please do get in contact.
 
Our clients are committed to building a diverse workforce and do not discriminate. Recruitment decisions are based purely on experience and skills, and reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the application process.
 

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