At a Glance
- 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 supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an innovative journey from the ground up in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pupils facing significant challenges.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education and a passion for student 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 employer: Dove House School
Solent Academies Trust offers a unique opportunity for passionate educators to shape the future of Luminous Oak Academy, a brand-new special free school dedicated to supporting children with SEMH needs. Located in the vibrant Boorley Gardens development, our work culture prioritises innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, ensuring that every team member is empowered to make a meaningful impact. With competitive salaries, high-quality coaching, and a commitment to staff wellbeing, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where both pupils and educators can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice Principal
✨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, which can give you a leg up.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in relevant events and workshops. This not only boosts your knowledge but also puts you in front of potential employers. Plus, it shows your commitment to the field and your passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Luminous Oak Academy and Solent Academies Trust. Understand their vision and values, and think about how your leadership style aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to show you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice Principal
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 learning culture, so connect your past roles to what we’re aiming to achieve at Luminous Oak.
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value authenticity and want to know the real you. Share your vision for the school and how you plan to foster a supportive environment for both staff and pupils.
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 have positively impacted students, especially those with special educational needs.
✨Emphasise Compassionate Leadership
As a Vice Principal, your ability to foster a supportive environment is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you’ve developed staff capacity and wellbeing in previous positions. Share stories that illustrate your compassionate approach to leadership and how it has benefited both staff and students.
✨Engage with the Community
Luminous Oak Academy is part of a community-focused initiative. Think about how you can engage with parents and local organisations to support the school’s growth. Prepare ideas on how to build relationships that enhance the school's reputation and support its mission.
