Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience, plus benefits and Teachers’ Pension Scheme
We are seeking an inspiring and highly visible leader to take on a senior role at a specialist school supporting children and young people with complex needs, predominantly autism and cognition and learning needs. Set in a beautiful rural location with extensive grounds and a lake, the school is part of a growing education group and has plans to expand over the coming years. This is a chance to rebuild confidence, set a positive culture and lead a school through its next phase of development.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide visible, supportive and confident leadership, building a positive, consistent culture and engaged staff team
- Take responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the school, managing the deputy, assistant head and teaching teams
- Maintain high standards, with strong attention to detail and consistent implementation of the school’s policies, curriculum and safeguarding procedures
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding a robust safeguarding culture
- Lead the school through inspection, taking forward the existing action plan and ensuring compliance with the Independent School Standards for Wales
- Handle challenging conversations with parents and professionals constructively and confidently
- Build strong relationships with families, local authorities and external partners
- Support the school’s planned growth in pupil numbers, including early years provision
About You
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and significant senior leadership experience
- Experience of leading a specialist school or provision for pupils with autism, ALN or complex needs
- A track record of leading successful external inspections, ideally including Estyn
- Proven experience of driving school improvement and raising standards
- Excellent people leadership, communication and organisational skills
- The resilience, confidence and credibility to lead a school and win the trust of staff, families and professionals
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding, ALN and regulatory requirements
What’s On Offer
- Salary dependant on experience
- Direct, regular support from an experienced Executive Head
- A beautiful setting, with approximately 18 acres of grounds and a lake
- A school with plans to grow, with approved capacity increases planned over the next 18 months
- Access to a wider leadership network and professional development opportunities
- Competitive benefits package
- The chance to join a growing organisation with real influence over the school’s direction
Head of School / Headteacher - SEN ASC employer: Compass Associates
Compass Associates is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Aesthetic Nurse Prescribers to thrive in a prestigious private clinic located in the heart of Central London. With a focus on work-life balance through a 4-day week, competitive earnings, and a commitment to professional growth, employees can expect a supportive and dynamic work culture that values their contributions and fosters long-term career advancement.
