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- Tasks: Lead and shape a brand-new academy dedicated to transforming lives of children with SEMH needs.
- Company: Join Solent Academies Trust and be part of an exciting educational journey.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Build a school from the ground up and empower young people to thrive.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education and a passion for supporting vulnerable pupils.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.
Solent Academies Trust is seeking a highly effective academy leader to join Luminous Oak Academy, at the start of its journey. Luminous Oak is a brand-new special free school dedicated to transforming the lives of children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Opening in September 2026 with 40 pupils in Years 5 to 8, Luminous Oak will grow over three years to be a state‑of‑the‑art, 125-place academy for pupils in Years 4 to 11, based in the heart of the Boorley Gardens development in Eastleigh.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to build a school from the ground up shaping its vision, culture, and provision to deliver exceptional specialist education. Named by pupils within our Trust, Luminous Oak represents strength, growth, and resilience, reflecting our commitment to empowering children and young people to thrive.
The school’s cutting‑edge facilities will include:
- 15 classrooms and specialist practical learning spaces
- Therapy and intervention areas tailored to SEMH support
- A fitness suite to promote well‑being and self‑regulation
- Extensive outdoor spaces, including sensory courtyard and a multi‑use games area
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate leader, with a proven record of leading curriculum, teaching, assessment and pupil achievement. You will build a learning culture where pupils are held to the highest expectations, ensuring every pupil leaves Luminous Oak with strong foundations. Championing our Trust Relational Culture Charter, you will develop staff capacity, confidence and wellbeing. As Vice Principal you will deputise for the Principal in their absence.
Vice Principal in Hampshire employer: Dove House School
Contact Detail:
Dove House School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice Principal in Hampshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who have experience with SEMH needs. They might know about opportunities or even recommend you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for building a school culture! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, share your vision for Luminous Oak Academy and how you plan to empower both staff and pupils. Make it personal!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific challenges related to SEMH needs. This will show that you’re not just a leader but a problem-solver who can think on their feet.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our exciting journey at Luminous Oak.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice Principal in Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for transforming the lives of children with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see how your personal values align with our mission at Luminous Oak Academy.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in leading curriculum and pupil achievement. We’re looking for someone who can build a strong learning culture, so share specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value compassion and authenticity, so let us get to know the real you in your written application. Share your vision for the academy and how you plan to empower both staff and pupils.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dove House School
✨Know the Vision
Familiarise yourself with Luminous Oak Academy's mission and values. Understand how they aim to transform the lives of children with SEMH needs. This will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their vision during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead curriculum development and improve pupil achievement. Highlight any initiatives you've implemented that have positively impacted student outcomes, especially in special education settings.
✨Emphasise Compassionate Leadership
As a Vice Principal, your ability to connect with both staff and students is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you foster a supportive environment and promote staff wellbeing, as well as how you plan to build a strong relational culture within the academy.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's future, its culture, and how they envision the role of the Vice Principal. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.