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- Tasks: Lead a new school for students with complex learning disabilities, shaping their educational journey.
- Company: Join a growing independent care company dedicated to empowering children through education and therapy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a unique leadership role with the chance to create a nurturing environment from scratch.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while fostering an inclusive and supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Must have QTS and experience in SEND/SLD settings, with a passion for supporting neurodiverse learners.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop a bespoke curriculum and work closely with a dedicated team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
My client is a successful and growing independent, integrated care company who, through therapy, residential placement and education, has a proven track record of supporting children to achieve a sense of emotional and practical independence. I’m looking for a Head Teacher for a brand new SLD-Focused School opening in Cumbria in January 2026. This is a unique opportunity to lead from the very start, taking ownership of the vision, values and success of a nurturing and inclusive educational setting for students aged 5–18 with complex learning disabilities and needs.
About the Role
- We are seeking a highly skilled, compassionate, and visionary Head Teacher who is experienced in working with pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties and associated conditions, and who can:
- Lead the registration process and school opening, ensuring all statutory and quality standards are met.
- Develop a bespoke curriculum tailored to the needs of SLD learners, within a 24-hour integrated care and education model.
- Foster a therapeutic, person-centred ethos that promotes communication, independence, and emotional regulation.
- Work in close partnership with our Registered Manager to deliver a seamless, child-centred residential experience.
- Embed a culture of high expectations, inclusive practice, and individualised achievement for every learner.
Person Specification
- We’re looking for someone who:
- Has Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and significant leadership experience within SEND/SLD settings and a proven record of good or outstanding teaching practice.
- Has a strong background in supporting learners with severe learning difficulties, sensory needs, autism, and behaviours of concern, with an understanding of managing behaviour that challenges and supporting students who are neurodiverse.
- Is confident in developing differentiated, engaging, and meaningful curriculums focused on communication, self-regulation, and life skills.
- Understands the barriers to learning faced by SLD pupils and is passionate about removing them.
- Has the passion and resilience to make a difference to the lives of their students.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re a passionate leader ready to inspire change, build something new, and make a lifelong impact, we want to hear from you.
Contact Detail:
dSb Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher - Specialist School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest educational practices and policies related to Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). This will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND community. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to connect with others who share your passion for supporting learners with complex needs, as these connections can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the new school. Think about how you would create an inclusive environment and what strategies you would implement to foster a therapeutic ethos that supports emotional regulation and independence.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific challenges faced by SLD pupils in educational settings. Being able to articulate these challenges and your strategies for overcoming them will show your depth of understanding and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher - Specialist School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in SEND/SLD settings. Emphasise your leadership roles and any specific achievements related to supporting learners with severe learning difficulties.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for education and your vision for the new school. Discuss how your values align with the nurturing and inclusive ethos they are looking to establish.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Provide examples of your previous work with SLD pupils, particularly focusing on how you've developed tailored curriculums and fostered emotional regulation and independence in your students.
Highlight Leadership Skills: Clearly outline your leadership experience and how it has prepared you for this role. Mention any successful initiatives you've led that improved educational outcomes or enhanced student well-being.
How to prepare for a job interview at dSb Recruitment
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to convey your genuine passion for working with children, especially those with severe learning difficulties. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience in SEND/SLD settings. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led teams, developed curriculums, and fostered inclusive practices in previous roles.
✨Understand the Unique Needs of SLD Learners
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by students with severe learning difficulties. Be prepared to discuss strategies you've implemented to support these learners, focusing on communication, independence, and emotional regulation.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with other professionals, such as therapists and residential managers. Discuss how you plan to create a seamless integration of care and education, ensuring a holistic approach to student development.
