Job Description

Head Teacher - Small Ofsted-Registered SEND School:

Lead a highly specialised learning environment where pupils with complex or varied special educational needs receive personalised, high-quality education and care. Champion a culture that prioritises safety, wellbeing, ambition, and measurable progress for every learner.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership

Set and deliver a whole-school vision centred on inclusion, high expectations, and individual growth. Drive continuous school improvement in line with Ofsted standards and SEND statutory requirements. Develop innovative approaches to curriculum, therapy integration, and personalised learning pathways.

Safeguarding & Compliance

Oversee the DSL team. Ensure complete compliance with Ofsted, DfE, SEND Code of Practice, and all relevant legislation. Maintain rigorous policies, risk assessments, and safeguarding culture across staff and practice.

Teaching, Learning & Assessment

Oversee differentiated and therapeutic teaching approaches that meet diverse needs (SEMH, ASC, cognition and learning, communication needs, etc.). Ensure EHCP outcomes are embedded in planning, tracking, and intervention. Monitor pupil progress and use data to drive targeted support and resource allocation.

Staff Leadership & Development

Help in recruit, mentor, and performance-manage teaching and support staff. Foster a collaborative, trauma-informed, and reflective professional culture. Lead CPD that builds specialist skills in SEND pedagogy, SEMH practice, behaviour support, and therapeutic approaches.

Operational & Financial Management

Work with finance manager to work towards budgets, resource planning, and staffing structures effectively. Oversee timetabling, admissions, transitions, and multi-agency coordination. Ensure the environment remains safe, engaging, and adapted to learners' needs.

Family & Community Partnerships

Work closely with parents/carers to ensure open communication and shared planning. Build strong links with local authorities, health services, therapists, and external partners. Represent the school's vision and impact within the community and wider SEND networks.

Key Qualities & Capabilities

Deep understanding of SEND needs and effective specialist provision. Strategic thinker with the ability to lead cultural change and school improvement. Emotionally intelligent leader able to support staff through challenge and complexity. Confident decision-maker with strong safeguarding instincts and operational awareness. Inspiring communicator who can unify staff, families, and external agencies around a shared purpose.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From 40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension
Work Location: In person