Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal Vacancy at Stephenson Academy

Stephenson (MK) Trust is seeking an inspiring, compassionate and ambitious Assistant Principal to join the senior leadership team at Stephenson Academy.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced middle or senior leader who is ready to broaden their impact within a specialist SEMH setting. You will play a key role in the strategic and operational leadership of the academy, working alongside the Principal and Deputy Principal to secure high-quality education, strong behaviour and pastoral practice, effective safeguarding and positive outcomes for every pupil.

Stephenson Academy supports children and young people with complex Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. We are therefore looking for a leader who combines high expectations with empathy, resilience and a strong understanding of inclusive and relational practice.

The successful candidate will be someone who can inspire and develop others, build strong relationships with pupils, staff, families and external partners, and use evidence, reflection and professional judgement to drive continued improvement.

Specific leadership responsibilities will be agreed in line with the successful candidate’s strengths, experience and development needs, alongside the academy’s current priorities. The role will also provide opportunities to contribute to wider Trust initiatives and collaborate with colleagues across Stephenson (MK) Trust.

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with experience of SEMH, specialist or Alternative Provision settings, although this is not essential. What matters most is a strong track record of leadership, a genuine commitment to inclusion and a determination to secure the very best outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Stephenson Academy is a successful specialist SEMH academy supporting pupils aged 9-16, with an associated Post-16 provision within the Trust for students aged 16-19.

Our pupils have Education, Health and Care Plans, with SEMH identified as their primary area of need. Many also have additional needs including Autism Spectrum Condition, ADHD, speech, language and communication needs and a range of mental health needs.

We provide a nurturing, structured and highly personalised learning environment in which pupils are supported to develop confidence, resilience, independence and the skills they need to succeed both academically and personally.

• A genuine opportunity to influence the continued development of Stephenson Academy.
• The chance to work alongside experienced leaders within a supportive and collaborative Trust.
• Significant professional development and opportunities to broaden your leadership experience.
• A values-driven, inclusive working environment with a strong commitment to children and young people.
• The opportunity to contribute to specialist education and inclusion across Milton Keynes.

We strongly encourage prospective candidates to visit Stephenson Academy and experience our provision first-hand.

For an informal discussion about the role, to arrange a visit or for further information, please contact the HR Team at or on .

Stephenson (MK) Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check with Children’s Barred List information, a Section 128 check, satisfactory references and all other relevant pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.