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- Tasks: Lead and shape a brand-new special school dedicated to transforming lives.
- Company: Join Solent Academies Trust, committed to empowering children with SEMH needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to innovate in education.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pupils facing significant challenges.
- Qualifications: Experienced leader with a passion for curriculum and pupil achievement.
The predicted salary is between 75049 - 82654 £ 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.
Salary & Benefits
Salary from £75,049 to £82,654 per year. We will provide high quality coaching, support and professional development. You will have the opportunity to be innovative, creative and have fun, whilst making a real difference to the lives of our pupils who face significant challenges in their learning and development.
Location: Solent Academies Trust, Flycatcher Road, Boorley Green, Hampshire, SO32 2FG.
Solent Academies Trust welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or religion. Solent Academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Vice Principal in Hedge End 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 Hedge End
✨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
Show up at events! Attend education fairs, workshops, or seminars related to special education. It’s a great way to meet people and get your name out there while learning more about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out to schools or trusts you admire, like Solent Academies Trust, and express your interest in potential roles. You never know what might come up!
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website! We’ve got loads of resources and tips to help you prepare for interviews and showcase your leadership skills effectively. Make sure you check it out before your next big meeting!
We think you need these skills to ace Vice Principal in Hedge End
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and supporting children with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
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 foundation for our new academy, so connect your past roles to what we’re aiming to achieve.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value authenticity and want to know the real you. Share your vision for Luminous Oak Academy and how you plan to foster a positive learning culture.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember 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 at Luminous Oak Academy!
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 innovative strategies you've implemented that could be beneficial for a new school environment.
✨Emphasise Compassionate Leadership
As an academy leader, it's crucial to show your understanding of the emotional and mental health challenges faced by pupils. Be ready to discuss how you would foster a supportive learning culture and develop staff wellbeing, reflecting the Trust's Relational Culture Charter.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's future, its culture, and how you can contribute to its growth. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.