Job Description

Overview

We are seeking an

inspirational and experienced Headteacher

to lead the creation and development of a brand-new

secondary SEN/SEMH school

in

Northwich

, catering for pupils aged 11-16.

With capacity for up to

108 pupils

, the school will provide a

safe, aspirational and therapeutic learning environment

for young people with complex needs, including

ASD

,

SEMH

, and related conditions.

This is a

rare opportunity

to lead an educational vision from the ground up.

Main Purpose

The Headteacher will:

Shape the school's culture, strategy, and long-term development Lead curriculum design and implementation for a diverse secondary cohort Create robust systems, structures, and professional practices Monitor progress and drive continuous school improvement Recruit, retain and empower a skilled multidisciplinary team Develop strong community links and multi-agency partnerships

Qualities

The Headteacher will:

Model exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to inclusion Promote high standards of ethics, care and professional conduct Be a strategic thinker with a practical and collaborative leadership style Place pupils' emotional and academic growth at the heart of all decisions

Duties and Responsibilities

School Culture and Behaviour

Create a safe, therapeutic and structured learning environment Promote a culture of high expectations for all learners Lead and model effective, consistent behaviour approaches rooted in relational practice Support a strong professional culture among staff

Teaching, Curriculum and Assessment

Develop a broad, coherent and engaging secondary curriculum Ensure delivery of core subjects, functional skills, and tailored pathways Promote high-quality teaching through clear pedagogy and staff support Use valid assessments to monitor academic and personal development Explore vocational and alternative qualifications as appropriate

SEN and Disabilities

Embed SEND best practice across all areas of school life Promote accessibility, differentiation and inclusive learning approaches Engage families and agencies to deliver bespoke support plans Ensure statutory compliance with EHCPs and safeguarding

Managing the School

Establish safeguarding protocols and lead a culture of vigilance and care Manage staffing, timetabling and operational systems Maintain oversight of budgets, resources and school site safety

Professional Development

Ensure staff access meaningful, relevant CPD Lead on staff training around trauma, mental health and SEN Build succession planning and leadership pipelines

Governance, Accountability and Partnerships

Provide detailed reports to the governing body Maintain compliance with inspection frameworks and legal duties Represent the school in the wider education community Build productive links with social care, CAMHS, health and local authority services

Person Specification

Qualifications

QTS and Degree NPQH or equivalent (preferred)

Experience

Proven leadership in a secondary SEN/SEMH setting Strong background in school improvement and curriculum development Deep understanding of adolescent mental health, trauma-informed practice and safeguarding Staff management and development experience

Skills/Knowledge

Ability to inspire, motivate and challenge Knowledge of qualifications pathways, assessment and inclusion Financial and operational leadership Strong communicator and relationship builder

Personal Qualities

Resilient, reflective and values-driven Compassionate and child-focused Committed to equality and diversity Visionary with the ability to deliver lasting impact
We are looking for someone to start this post as soon as possible but will be flexible with notice periods for the right candidate.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 70,000.00-75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking
Experience:

school leadership: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 14/08/2025