At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead educational excellence and drive continuous improvement for children with complex needs.
- Company: Craighalbert, a high-performing charity supporting children across Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 55 days annual leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a motivated team and contribute to national impact in education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with complex needs.
- Qualifications: GTCS registration or commitment to achieve it, plus significant teaching and leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 68390 - 68390 € per year.
The Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments (Craighalbert) is a Scottish charity located near Cumbernauld, offering services to children, young people and families from across Scotland. The Centre operates as an independent school for children and young people with complex communication, learning, health, and care needs. It is one of seven Grant Aided Special Schools supported by the Scottish Government. With a team of 48 staff, the Centre operates on an annual budget of approximately £3.2 million. We are dedicated to helping children and young people from birth to 19 years old with complex communication, learning, health and care needs reach their potential and thrive.
Head of Learning to lead educational excellence within our high‑performing Grant Aided Special School and contribute to our ambition to grow our provision and national impact. In this role you will deliver consistently high-quality learning outcomes through a highly personalised curriculum for children and young people with complex additional support needs. Strong inspection and regulatory performance through robust quality assurance, compliance and school improvement planning. An integrated, multi-disciplinary model where learning, therapy and care are aligned around each learner. Effective partnerships with families, local authorities and national stakeholders, including contributing to sector improvement and influencing national practice. A motivated, high-performing team with clear expectations, excellent professional learning and a positive, values-led culture.
What you’ll do:
- Lead Craighalbert’s educational strategy and day-to-day delivery, reporting to the CEO and advising the Board of Directors.
- Drive continuous improvement across curriculum, assessment, pedagogy and learner wellbeing.
- Lead and develop Teachers and Learning Care and Therapy Practitioners, ensuring effective professional supervision, recruitment, and development.
- Strengthen cross-centre collaboration so education, therapy and care work seamlessly together.
- Build strong external relationships with local authorities, national bodies and partners; represent Craighalbert as required, including at educational tribunals.
What you’ll bring:
- GTCS registration with the Standard for Headship, or commitment to achieve the Standard for Headship within two years of appointment.
- Strong knowledge of Curriculum for Excellence, additional support for learning and relevant Scottish legislation/policy.
- Significant teaching experience (5+ years) and leadership capability within ASN/complex needs contexts.
- A collaborative, values-led leadership style with the ability to inspire, coach and build high-performing teams.
- Energy, commitment and ambition to succeed and work as part of a high performing Centre Leadership Team.
Package:
- Salary - £68,390
- Permanent 37 hours/week (Mon–Thu 8.30am–4.30pm Fri 8.30am -4.00pm)
- 55 days annual leave
For a full Recruitment Pack, please visit www.craighalbert.org.uk/current-vacancies or contact 01236 456100 to arrange an informal discussion. The closing date for application is 29 May 2026 and interviews will take place on 9 and 10 June 2026.
Head of Learning employer: Craighalbert
The Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a positive and values-led work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its staff. With a focus on educational excellence and a commitment to innovative practices, employees benefit from extensive professional learning opportunities and a collaborative environment that supports their ambitions. Located near Cumbernauld, the Centre offers a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people with complex needs, all while enjoying generous benefits such as 55 days of annual leave.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Learning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those involved with special needs. Attend events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and stakeholders. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone from Craighalbert, make sure to express why you’re excited about the role. Share your vision for educational excellence and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Craighalbert’s current initiatives and challenges. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to discuss specific examples of your leadership in similar contexts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the position and keep you top of mind.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Learning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Learning role. Highlight your experience with complex needs and how it aligns with Craighalbert's mission.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We want to see your collaborative, values-led leadership style in action. Share examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in your previous roles, especially in ASN contexts.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the position.
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 Craighalbert
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Curriculum for Excellence and the specific needs of children with complex communication and learning challenges. Brush up on relevant Scottish legislation and policies, as this will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences, especially in ASN contexts. Think about examples where you've inspired teams or driven improvements. This is your chance to demonstrate how your collaborative, values-led approach can benefit Craighalbert.
✨Engage with Their Mission
Familiarise yourself with Craighalbert’s mission and values. Be ready to articulate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their ambition of growing their provision and national impact.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could be about their current educational strategies or how they envision the future of the Centre. It shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
