Assistant Headteacher

Required for September 2026

Headteacher: Ms Neena Lall OBE

The Governors of St Stephen’s School and Children’s Centre wish to appoint an exceptional Assistant Headteacher for the Nursery School from September 2026.

This is a key senior leadership role within our hard federated setting. The post holder will support the strategic and operational leadership of the Nursery School, working closely with the Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher and wider Federated Leadership Team to ensure high quality provision and strong outcomes for children aged 2–5.

We are seeking an ambitious, values-driven early years leader who is committed to excellence, inclusion and continuous improvement.

The successful candidate will:

• Be a visible, approachable and trusted leader within the Nursery School
• Be an outstanding early years practitioner with strong knowledge of EYFS pedagogy, curriculum and assessment
• Demonstrate leadership potential with a proven impact on teaching, learning and outcomes
• Support the day-to-day organisation and smooth running of the Nursery provision
• Lead by example, modelling high expectations, professionalism and care
• Contribute to securing excellent teaching, learning and progress for all children, particularly the most disadvantaged
• Champion inclusion, safeguarding and early intervention
• Support assessment, tracking, moderation and transition processes
• Build strong relationships with families and external professionals
• Contribute to whole federation priorities and improvement work
• Communicate clearly and professionally with staff, families and partners
• Be reflective, resilient and committed to ongoing professional development

As a school and federation we offer:

• A highly experienced, stable and values-led leadership team
• A nationally recognised Nursery School and Children’s Centre with strong community roots
• A culture where children, families and staff are genuinely valued
• A clear moral purpose centred on equity, inclusion and opportunity
• Strong professional development, coaching and leadership pathways
• Dedicated protected leadership time
• A supportive and committed federated staff team

Application process

Please email the School Business Manager, Mark Little, at mark.little@st-stephens.newham.sch.uk for more information.

Closing date: Thursday 16th April 2026 at noon

Shortlisting: Friday 17th April 2026

Interviews and presentations: Thursday 30th April 2026

Safeguarding statement

St Stephen’s School and Children’s Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be required to undertake enhanced DBS checks and all relevant safeguarding checks.

Please note: St Stephen’s is not a church school.