Assistant Headteacher – An Exceptional Leadership Opportunity
About This Role
Rhodes Wood Hospital School (RWHS) is an Ofsted Outstanding independent hospital school providing education for up to 38 students aged 8–18 who are inpatients receiving specialist treatment for eating disorders and associated mental health conditions within a CYPMHS unit.
At RWHS, education sits at the heart of recovery, working alongside clinical care to rebuild confidence, restore routine, and help young people reconnect with learning. Our pupils are bright, capable and ambitious, and many are high attaining. They require teachers and leaders who recognise both their academic potential and the complex journeys that bring them to our school.
We are seeking an exceptional Assistant Headteacher to join our Senior Leadership Team at an important stage in the school’s development. This role requires a leader who can combine strategic thinking, educational expertise and compassionate leadership, ensuring that academic rigour is maintained while responding sensitively to the social, emotional and mental health needs of our students.
The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the next phase of the school’s development, working closely with the Headteacher and wider clinical team to ensure that every pupil is supported to achieve both academically and personally.
We recognise the importance of appointing the right person and are seeking a candidate who shares our vision, values and commitment to this unique educational setting.
The Role
As Assistant Headteacher, you will
Deputise for other senior leaders and play a key role in strategic and operational leadership.
Lead on the pastoral curriculum, behaviour management, SEND and inclusion
Build strong links with home and community schools across England to ensure continuity of education and successful reintegration.
Model outstanding pastoral care, with a commitment to trauma-informed and inclusive practice.
Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), promoting the highest standards of welfare and care.
We Are Looking For a Leader Who
Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and has proven school leadership experience.
Demonstrates excellence in supporting young people in a school setting
Leads with empathy, clarity, and accountability in a complex and specialist setting.
Has a strong understanding of SEMH, SEND, and hospital education contexts.
Believes in high expectations and high support for every student and colleague.
What We Offer
The opportunity to work in an Ofsted Outstanding school with a national reputation for excellence.
A small, highly supportive team where collaboration and innovation thrive.
Small class sizes and the opportunity for deeply personalised teaching and leadership.
Ongoing professional development and CPD investment.
Free on-site parking, lunch provision, and a private pension scheme with Scottish Widows.
The chance to make a life-changing impact on the education and recovery of young people from across England. Please contact Sharon Tuffnell on 01707 655344 if you require further information, or email her stuffnell@elysiumeducation.co.uk