At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the launch of a brand-new SEMH school and inspire a dedicated team.
- Company: A supportive organisation committed to specialist education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £70,000 plus an excellent bonus scheme.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to establish a school culture from the ground up.
- Why this job: Shape a nurturing environment and make a lasting impact on children's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in SEND/SEMH settings and exceptional communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are proud to be recruiting for an inspirational Headteacher to lead the opening of a brand-new specialist SEMH school in Cheshire, due to open beginning of 2026. This purpose-built school will provide high-quality education for up to 25 students, supporting children aged 5–13 years (Key Stages 1–3) with social, emotional and mental health needs.
As the founding Headteacher, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the school’s culture, recruit and lead your team, and embed a nurturing, ambitious environment where children can thrive.
The role will include:
- Leading the launch and ongoing development of a brand-new SEMH provision.
- Recruiting, managing and inspiring a skilled and dedicated staff team.
- Creating and delivering an inclusive, engaging and aspirational curriculum tailored to the needs of SEMH learners.
- Ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding, quality and compliance in line with Ofsted.
- Building positive relationships with parents, carers, local authorities and external agencies.
We are looking for a Headteacher who:
- Has proven experience in leading or significantly contributing to leadership within a SEND/SEMH setting.
- Can create and sustain a strong ethos and values-driven culture.
- Is passionate about achieving outstanding outcomes for children with SEMH needs.
- Possesses exceptional leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- Can thrive in the challenge of establishing a brand-new school.
What’s on offer:
- A competitive salary of up to £70,000 and an excellent bonus scheme.
- The chance to shape and grow a brand-new school from the very beginning.
- A supportive and ambitious organisation committed to specialist education.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a passionate leader to make a real and lasting impact in specialist education!
If this exciting opportunity sounds like the right fit for you, please contact Jordanna Osborn on 02394211147. Alternatively, email an updated CV to josborn@compassltd.co.uk.
Compass Associates Ltd is acting as a Recruitment Consultancy for this permanent vacancy. We offer a £200 John Lewis voucher for successful referrals following the completion of probation.
Headteacher - Brand New SEMH School employer: Compass
As a pioneering employer in the field of specialist education, we offer an exceptional opportunity for the founding Headteacher of our brand-new SEMH school in Cheshire. With a competitive salary and an excellent bonus scheme, you will be empowered to shape the school's culture and curriculum while working within a supportive and ambitious organisation dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Join us in creating a nurturing environment where both staff and students can thrive and grow together.
