At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a specialist school for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs.
- Company: Join Synergy Education Trust, dedicated to improving educational outcomes for all students.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible policies, professional development, and 24/7 wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on students' lives in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Seeking experienced leaders with a track record in school improvement and tailored learning.
- Other info: Confidential discussions and school visits available before applying.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Closing Date: Friday 19th September 2025 9am
Proposed Interview Date: Thursday 25th & Friday 26th September 2025
Synergy Education Trust is looking to appoint a new Head of School, at The Maple School, Blackpool. The Maple School is a specialist provision for pupils aged 10-16, with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Our school has been purpose built to accommodate pupils who have an Education, Health and Care Plan. We can cater for up to 48 students, ranging from Year 6 to Year 11. All students have access to a number of curriculum pathways which deliver all core subjects, meaningful qualifications, and therapeutic interventions that will help them to develop and fully engage with school life.
We are seeking to expand our senior leadership team by appointing an experienced leader with a strong track record in driving school improvement and developing and implementing tailored learning programmes.
The Head of School will provide dynamic and strategic leadership, working in close partnership with the Governing Body and Trust to drive continuous improvement. This role is pivotal in shaping a positive and inclusive school culture, fostering collaboration across staff teams, and strengthening professional relationships. The Head of School will lead the revitalisation of the curriculum to ensure it is engaging, relevant, and ambitious, with a clear focus on raising standards and improving outcomes for all pupils.
They will:
• Translate the school’s vision into a coherent development plan and lead its successful implementation.
• Establish and maintain effective systems, processes, and policies to ensure smooth and efficient school operations.
• Take responsibility for the internal organisation, day-to-day management, and overall control of the school.
• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning is secured and sustained across all phases.
• Lead on the line management and performance appraisal of staff, promoting professional growth and accountability.
• Manage the school’s finances and resources strategically to maximise impact and value, aligned with the school’s vision and priorities.
• Oversee the provision of strong pastoral care and effective behaviour support systems.
• Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment that values diversity and ensures access for all pupils and staff.
• Develop an outward-facing school culture by building partnerships with other schools, organisations, and community stakeholders to share best practice and enhance learning opportunities.
• Collaborate with the Trust other school leaders to share expertise, drive innovation, and support school improvement.
• Work closely with the Governing Body and Trustees to further develop and embed the school’s collaborative vision, values, and strategic direction, focused on excellence, high standards, and inclusion.
If you feel you share our values, have the vision and drive for excellence and want to be part of an enthusiastic and dedicated team, committed to ensuring that students fulfil their potential, then we would like to hear from you.
Why choose us?
• At Synergy we have a focus on staff wellbeing, providing 24/7 access to employee wellbeing support services
• Access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme
• Join a growing Multi Academy Trust (MAT) with a commitment to professional development
• Free on-site parking
• Professional Development: We prioritise the growth of our staff, offering ongoing training and support to help you reach your full potential.
• Supportive Community: Become part of a caring team that values your contributions and celebrates your successes.
• Impactful Work: Play a vital role in shaping the educational journey of our students, making a lasting difference in their lives.
• Flexible and family friendly policies
To arrange an informal, confidential discussion regarding this role, or to arrange a visit to the school please contact [emailprotected] . Please note this mailbox will have limited monitoring during the school holidays.
Visits to the school will take place on:
• Tuesday 9th September- 1.00-3.00
• Thursday 11th September – 9.30-11.30
• Monday 15th September- 9.30-11.30
Synergy Education Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community. We are committed to protecting our students and staff and therefore have a rigorous recruitment process that includes assessing candidates’ suitability to work with children. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and young people. This post is subject to satisfactory two-year reference history, Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, medical clearance, evidence of any essential qualifications and proof of legal working in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996. As part of pre-employment vetting, online/social media platforms checks may be carried out in line with Safer Recruitment guidelines.
The Maple School, Langdale Road, Blackpool, Blackpool, FY4 4RR, United Kingdom
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Head of School NEW The Maple School Posted yesterday Blackpool and Fylde £70,293 Expires on 19/[...] employer: Blackpool
Contact Detail:
Blackpool Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School NEW The Maple School Posted yesterday Blackpool and Fylde £70,293 Expires on 19/[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Understanding these requirements will help you demonstrate your capability to lead a school that caters to such diverse learning needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former leaders in similar educational settings. Engaging with professionals who have experience in specialist provisions can provide valuable insights and potentially useful connections for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for curriculum revitalisation during the interview. Think about innovative strategies that could enhance engagement and outcomes for students, as this is a key focus for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership style by highlighting examples of how you've fostered collaboration among staff teams in previous roles. This will resonate well with the school's emphasis on building a positive and inclusive culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School NEW The Maple School Posted yesterday Blackpool and Fylde £70,293 Expires on 19/[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience and track record in school improvement. Focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to implement tailored learning programmes and foster an inclusive school culture.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for education and your vision for the role of Head of School. Address how your values align with those of Synergy Education Trust and provide examples of how you have successfully led teams and improved student outcomes.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, emphasise roles where you managed staff, developed curriculum, or worked closely with governing bodies. Use quantifiable results to showcase your impact on previous schools or educational settings.
Prepare for Interview Questions: Anticipate questions related to school leadership, curriculum development, and fostering an inclusive environment. Prepare thoughtful responses that reflect your strategic thinking and commitment to student welfare, as well as examples from your past experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackpool
✨Understand the School's Vision
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand The Maple School's vision and values. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their goals for fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your previous experience in driving school improvement and developing tailored learning programmes. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully implemented strategies that have positively impacted student outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges in a school setting. Think of examples where you've effectively managed staff performance or improved teaching quality, and be ready to discuss these in detail.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
The role requires strong collaboration with the Governing Body and other stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've built partnerships in the past and how you plan to foster collaboration within the school and the wider community.