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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to provide exceptional education for students with special needs.
- Company: Join the innovative Aurora Group, dedicated to transforming lives through education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and discounts on everyday essentials.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience in a specialist school environment required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career development and support for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 76772 - 84699 £ per year.
Location: Aurora Woodlands, Darwen, BB3 2NG
Contract Type: Full-time/Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: £76,772 to £84,699 (L17 - L21), depending on experience
Close date: 23rd February 2026
The Aurora Group is an innovative provider of education and care for children, young people and adults with special educational needs and disabilities. Due to the retirement of our current Principal in September 2026, we are excited to be advertising for an exceptional Primary and Secondary Special Education School Head Teacher. Woodlands school is based in Darwen with a capacity of 64 students aged between 10 - 19. The student cohort have a primary diagnosis of ASC/ADHD. We are currently looking for a Head Teacher to join us in September 2026. The school allows children and young people to access a varied curriculum in a calm and nurturing environment with a team that strives to give every student the very best confidence and opportunities to achieve.
The Role
The Role of the Head Teacher is to provide vision, leadership and direction for the school to the highest professional standard whilst maintaining its success and providing a high quality of education which reflects Aurora’s vision and values. In line with all Headteacher roles, you will ultimately be accountable for all areas of operational and educational performance within the School, as well as the financial performance and management of education and support staff. To achieve in this role, you will be someone who inspires creativity and collaboration, a strong leader and a passionate advocate for your students, finding ways to deliver educational outcomes that make a real difference to them.
Successful candidates are likely to demonstrate:
- Qualified Teacher Status with further professional qualification in a relevant area. Candidates with Head Teacher qualification (such as NPQH/SNLP) or a willingness to gain such a qualification
- Proven experience as a Headteacher within a specialist school environment
- Up to date knowledge of current DfE guidance including Independent Schools Standards (ISS)
- Knowledge and understanding of SLD and ASD issues
- Up to date knowledge of local and national government initiatives and legislation
- Quality assurance experience (such as lesson observations and performance management)
- Strong and effective leadership qualities
- Superb communication and stakeholder management skills
What’s on Offer at Aurora?
We believe in supporting you as much as we support the children and young people in our care. Here’s a snapshot of the fantastic benefits waiting for you:
- Grow with Us – Training & Development: Learning never stops at Aurora! We offer a wide range of training programmes and career development opportunities to help you build your skills and reach your goals.
- Save Money on Everyday Essentials: With the rising cost of living, our Perkbox app helps you stretch your money further: Discounts on groceries, phone plans, internet, dining out, gym memberships & more. Access to our Cycle to Work and Car Scheme.
- Access Wagestream: a financial wellbeing app that helps you track earnings, save, get expert money advice, and even access part of your pay early when needed.
- Competitive Pay & Reward: We regularly benchmark our pay and benefits to stay ahead of the curve. You’ll enjoy: Enhanced Annual Leave, Company Sick Pay, Enhanced Pension, Life Assurance.
Head Teacher in Darwen employer: Aurora Woodlands School
Contact Detail:
Aurora Woodlands School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher in Darwen
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Understand their approach to special education and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've inspired creativity and collaboration in your previous roles. This is your chance to demonstrate that you’re not just a leader, but a passionate advocate for students.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher in Darwen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head Teacher role. Highlight your experience in special education and how it aligns with our vision at Aurora.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've inspired creativity and collaboration in your previous roles. This is your chance to shine as a strong leader.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aurora Woodlands School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest DfE guidance and Independent Schools Standards. Brush up on your knowledge of SLD and ASD issues, as well as any relevant government initiatives. This will show that you’re not just a candidate, but a knowledgeable leader ready to make a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with Aurora’s vision and values. Think about specific examples where you’ve inspired creativity and collaboration among staff and students. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can lead a team effectively in a specialist school environment.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to talk about your experience in stakeholder management. Whether it’s parents, staff, or external partners, showing that you can communicate effectively and build relationships is key. Have some anecdotes ready that highlight your ability to engage and collaborate with various stakeholders.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the school’s culture, challenges, and future goals. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also helps you assess if this is the right fit for you. Remember, you want to ensure that you can thrive in their environment too!
