Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead InFocus College, guiding students with vision impairment towards independence and success.
- Company: InFocus College is a specialist further education college in Exeter for young people with complex needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy six weeks annual leave, occupational sick pay, and enhanced maternity/paternity leave.
- Why this job: Shape the future of inclusive education while making a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in SEND or inclusive settings and a passion for supporting young people are essential.
- Other info: We encourage informal chats before applying and are committed to diversity and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We’re looking for an outstanding and ambitious educational leader to become the next Principal of InFocus College – one of the UK’s most specialist further education colleges. Based in Exeter, InFocus College supports young people aged 16–25 with vision impairment and complex needs. Our personalised, person-centred programmes help students develop the skills, confidence and independence they need to lead fulfilling adult lives.
As Principal, you’ll play a key leadership role across the organisation, guiding the college on its journey from good to outstanding. You’ll set strategic direction, lead a dedicated multidisciplinary team, champion high standards, and promote our unique offer to partners and commissioners across the UK. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a truly specialist setting – one where inclusion, dignity and opportunity are at the heart of everything we do.
About you
We’re looking for a compassionate, visionary leader who’s passionate about inclusive education and has the energy and drive to lead a high-performing team. You’ll need leadership experience in a SEND, special school, or inclusive FE setting, along with a deep understanding of the needs of young people with vision impairment, complex needs, or PMLD. Excellent communication and people skills are essential, as is the ability to inspire and influence others. You should also have a strong grasp of preparation for adulthood and the ambition to help students thrive beyond college. Strategic thinking and operational confidence are key—you’ll be just as comfortable in the classroom as you are presenting to commissioners or trustees. Whether you’re already a Principal or a Deputy ready for your next step, we’d love to hear from you.
How we say “thank you”
- Six weeks annual leave plus eight bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time hours)
- Occupational sick pay scheme from day one
- Paid medical appointments
- Comprehensive training and development
- Enhanced paternity leave
- Enhanced maternity pay
- Long Service Awards
- Access to discounted shopping
- On-site free parking
- 24-hour employee assistance programme
- “Death in service” life assurance and group accident cover
- Free flu vaccinations
- Cycle to Work Scheme
About our application process
Please complete our application form (CVs alone will not be accepted) and return it to us by 10am on Monday 30th June 2025. When providing a supporting statement, please refer to the job description and person specification in the application pack and include information that shows your suitability for the role. Interviews and assessments will take place on 8th or 9th July 2025 on site at InFocus Charity in Exeter. Please ensure you are available for the full day. We are hoping for someone to join us as soon as possible and no later than January 2026.
Interested? We strongly encourage visits or informal chats before applying. Contact Amanda Gorfin, PA to CEO, on 01392 454201.
Equality, diversity and safeguarding
We are a disability friendly employer and actively encourage candidates with a disability to apply. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are conditional to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS), satisfactory medical check, references and evidence the right to work in the UK. Staff have a responsibility to inform InFocus of any conviction or prosecution that occurs whilst employed. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children and adults at risk. To be eligible for this position, we require candidates to either hold British citizenship or have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor applications from candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.
College Principal employer: InFocus
Contact Detail:
InFocus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land College Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with InFocus College's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to inclusive education and the specific needs of students with vision impairment will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND and inclusive education sectors. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to connect with others who share your passion, as these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your strategic vision for the college. Think about innovative programmes or partnerships that could enhance the educational experience for students, and be ready to share these ideas during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider arranging an informal chat with Amanda Gorfin, the PA to the CEO. This could give you a better understanding of the college culture and expectations, while also demonstrating your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace College Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description and person specification thoroughly. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Principal position at InFocus College.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: When writing your supporting statement, directly address the criteria outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your leadership skills, understanding of SEND, and commitment to inclusive education.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your previous leadership roles, particularly in SEND or inclusive settings. Discuss your achievements and how they relate to the needs of young people with vision impairment and complex needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at InFocus
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusive Education
Make sure to express your genuine passion for inclusive education during the interview. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your commitment to supporting young people with vision impairment and complex needs.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles, particularly in SEND or inclusive settings. Highlight specific achievements and how you have successfully led teams to improve educational outcomes.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since the role involves setting strategic direction, be ready to discuss your vision for the college. Think about how you would guide the institution from good to outstanding and be prepared to share your ideas on operational confidence.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Remember that interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the college's current initiatives and future plans. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the college aligns with your values and goals.
