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- Tasks: Lead a specialist college for young people with Autism and complex learning needs.
- Company: Join a respected independent college dedicated to empowering neurodivergent individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on young lives while driving innovation in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND leadership and a strong understanding of autism required.
- Other info: This role offers the chance to shape the future of a growing college.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
Job Advertisement: Head of College – Specialist Post-16 Provision
Location: Near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: £65,000
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and passionate education leader to join a highly regarded independent specialist college for young people aged 16-25 with Autism and complex learning needs.
About the Role:
We are seeking a dynamic Head of College to lead a well-established team at a purpose-built specialist college set near Peterborough. This leadership role involves driving forward the vision and continued development of the college as it enters an ambitious phase of growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic and operational leadership to ensure high-quality, person-centred education
- Champion the curriculum, which focuses on Preparation for Adulthood outcomes including Functional Skills, Independent Living, Enterprise, Employment and Creative Learning
- Develop therapeutic and vocational opportunities through extensive onsite resources such as animal care and horticulture
- Maintain and build strong relationships with external stakeholders, including local authorities and regulatory bodies
- Lead and motivate a multidisciplinary team including teaching staff, support workers, and onsite therapy professionals
- Drive innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring learners achieve meaningful, individualised outcomes
About the College:
The college is part of a larger national organisation supporting neurodivergent individuals across education and care settings. The provision is rooted in inclusive values and aims to empower learners to be themselves, achieve their potential, and prepare for fulfilling adult lives. It benefits from first-class facilities, a skilled and passionate staff team, and a strong therapeutic foundation.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
- Proven leadership experience within a SEND or specialist post-16 setting
- A deep understanding of autism and complex learning needs
- Strong strategic and operational management skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- A commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and outstanding outcomes for all learners
This is a unique chance to lead a thriving and growing college at an exciting stage of development, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people and their families.
To Apply:
If you are a resilient, forward-thinking leader with a passion for specialist education, we would love to hear from you.
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Head Teacher - 16-25 SEND College employer: Gilbert Meher
Contact Detail:
Gilbert Meher Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher - 16-25 SEND College
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the SEND sector. Attend local events or workshops related to special education needs, as this can help you connect with key stakeholders and gain insights into the latest trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the college's current programmes and initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their curriculum and any recent developments, so you can discuss how your vision aligns with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership style. Think about specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams in a SEND environment, and be ready to share these stories to demonstrate your capability.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with the college's online presence. Follow them on social media and participate in discussions to show your interest and commitment to their mission, which can help you stand out as a passionate candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher - 16-25 SEND College
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Head Teacher position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in SEND and leadership.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly outline your leadership experience, particularly in SEND settings. Include specific examples of how you've driven educational outcomes and engaged with stakeholders.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for specialist education and your vision for the college. Highlight your understanding of autism and complex learning needs, and how you plan to lead the team effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gilbert Meher
✨Show Your Passion for SEND Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with young people with Autism and complex learning needs. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your previous leadership roles, particularly in SEND or specialist settings. Discuss how you have successfully led teams, driven initiatives, and improved educational outcomes, showcasing your strategic and operational management skills.
✨Highlight Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Be ready to discuss how you have built and maintained relationships with external stakeholders, such as local authorities and regulatory bodies. Provide examples of how these relationships have positively impacted your previous roles and the learners you served.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Continuous Improvement
Share your ideas on how to drive innovation within the college. Discuss any past experiences where you implemented new programmes or strategies that enhanced learning opportunities, particularly those focused on Preparation for Adulthood outcomes.
