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- Tasks: Lead a new residential school for students with complex learning disabilities.
- Company: Join New Reflexions, known for outstanding educational settings since 2007.
- Benefits: Enjoy free holidays in caravans, ongoing training, and well-being support.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Must have QTS and experience in SEND/SLD settings with proven teaching success.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check due to working with children.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Head Teacher (SEND) – New Residential School
Location: Keswick, Cumbria
Salary: Competitive
Start Date: September 2025
Be part of something transformational with New Reflexions a rare opportunity to shape the future of a new SLD-focused school!
New Reflexions, a well-established organisation known for its Outstanding and Good-rated schools and homes since 2007, is opening Old Windebrowe School — a brand new residential special school set in the beautiful surroundings of Keswick, Cumbria.
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
Key Responsibilities
Shaping the Future
- Create and implement a shared vision and ethos for the school
- Develop and maintain a strategic plan in collaboration with New Reflexions Directors
- Build a culture of inclusion, high expectations, and continuous improvement
Leading Teaching and Learning
- Ensure high-quality teaching through a stimulating, needs-led curriculum
- Promote innovation, student engagement, and progress across all key stages
- Implement effective assessment, behaviour, and attendance strategies
Staff Leadership and Development
- Inspire, support, and develop a high-performing team
- Delegate effectively, manage staff performance, and support professional growth
- Lead by example and uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism
Deployment of Resources
- Recruit, deploy and manage staff and resources in line with strategic goals
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and safeguarding responsibilities
- Maximise value for money while improving learning outcomes
Strengthening Community Links
- Promote inclusion, diversity, and community involvement
- Build partnerships with parents, carers, agencies, and local stakeholders
- Embed the school within the local community through shared initiatives and services
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
- Have the passion and resilience to make a difference to the lives of their students
Benefits
- Free access to 5 caravans throughout the UK for a personal holiday
- Bike-to-work and electric vehicle scheme
- Laptop and mobile phone
- Ongoing CPD and professional qualifications
- Supportive supervision and leadership coaching
- Access to well-being and EAP services
- Blue Light Card
- Small class sizes with a focus on individual learning journeys
- A chance to make a real impact in children’s lives
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.
Join New Reflexions and help create a school where every child is seen, valued, and supported to thrive.
Apply now to lead Old Windebrowe School into a bright future!
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, as this post of teaching assistant is a regulated activity and/or on a regulated site the successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and our safer recruitment process. If you have any questions regarding this, please highlight these in your application.
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Head Teacher SEND employer: Newreflexions
Contact Detail:
Newreflexions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher SEND
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Understanding their unique challenges and how to address them will demonstrate your commitment and expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND community. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to recommendations for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Research New Reflexions and their approach to education. Being well-versed in their values and mission will allow you to align your vision for the school with theirs, making a strong case for your candidacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in detail. Think about specific examples where you've successfully led teams or implemented innovative practices in SEND settings, as this will showcase your capability to lead the new school effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher SEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head Teacher SEND position. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with severe learning difficulties and how your experience aligns with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in SEND settings. Emphasise your leadership roles, teaching achievements, and any specific strategies you've implemented for supporting learners with complex needs.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for education and your vision for the new school. Discuss how you plan to foster an inclusive environment and your approach to developing a bespoke curriculum for SLD learners.
Showcase Your Commitment: In your application, demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Mention any relevant training or experiences that showcase your dedication to creating a safe and nurturing educational environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newreflexions
✨Show Your Passion for SEND
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with students 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 style and how you have successfully led teams in the past. Be ready to provide examples of how you've inspired and developed staff, as well as how you've implemented high standards in educational settings.
✨Tailor Your Curriculum Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the principles of developing a bespoke curriculum for SLD learners. Be prepared to discuss innovative strategies you've used to engage students and promote their independence and emotional regulation.
✨Emphasise Community Engagement
Highlight your experience in building partnerships with parents, carers, and local stakeholders. Discuss any initiatives you've led that foster community involvement and inclusion, showcasing your ability to embed the school within its local context.
