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- Tasks: Lead a new school for students with complex learning disabilities, shaping their educational journey.
- Company: Join a growing independent care company dedicated to empowering children through education and therapy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a unique leadership role with the chance to create a nurturing environment from scratch.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while fostering an inclusive and supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Must have Qualified Teacher Status and experience in SEND/SLD settings with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: This is a rare opportunity to influence the vision and success of a brand new school.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
My client is a successful and growing independent, integrated care company who, through therapy, residential placement and education, has a proven track record of supporting children to achieve a sense of emotional and practical independence. I’m looking for a Head Teacher for a brand new SLD-Focused School opening in Cumbria in January 2026. This is a unique opportunity to lead from the very start, taking ownership of the vision, values and success of a nurturing and inclusive educational setting for students aged 5–18 with complex learning disabilities and needs.
About the Role
- We are seeking a highly skilled, compassionate, and visionary Head Teacher who is experienced in working with pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties and associated conditions, and who can:
- Lead the registration process and school opening, ensuring all statutory and quality standards are met.
- Develop a bespoke curriculum tailored to the needs of SLD learners, within a 24-hour integrated care and education model.
- Foster a therapeutic, person-centred ethos that promotes communication, independence, and emotional regulation.
- Work in close partnership with our Registered Manager to deliver a seamless, child-centred residential experience.
- Embed a culture of high expectations, inclusive practice, and individualised achievement for every learner.
Person Specification
- We’re looking for someone who:
- Has Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and significant leadership experience within SEND/SLD settings and a proven record of good or outstanding teaching practice.
- Has a strong background in supporting learners with severe learning difficulties, sensory needs, autism, and behaviours of concern, with an understanding of managing behaviour that challenges and supporting students who are neurodiverse.
- Is confident in developing differentiated, engaging, and meaningful curriculums focused on communication, self-regulation, and life skills.
- Understands the barriers to learning faced by SLD pupils and is passionate about removing them.
- Has the passion and resilience to make a difference to the lives of their students.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re a passionate leader ready to inspire change, build something new, and make a lifelong impact, we want to hear from you.
Head Teacher - Specialist School employer: dSb Recruitment
Contact Detail:
dSb Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher - Specialist School
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the SEND and SLD sectors. Attend relevant conferences, workshops, or local meet-ups to connect with others who share your passion for supporting learners with complex needs. This can help you gain insights into the latest practices and potentially lead to recommendations for the Head Teacher role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities of opening a new school. Research successful case studies of similar schools and understand the regulatory requirements for registration. This knowledge will not only prepare you for the role but also demonstrate your commitment during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the local community in Cumbria. Understanding the demographics and needs of the area will be crucial in developing a bespoke curriculum. Building relationships with local organisations can also provide valuable support and resources for your future school.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership style and vision through informal discussions or presentations. Consider hosting a workshop or seminar on best practices in SEND education. This will not only highlight your expertise but also position you as a thought leader in the field, making you a more attractive candidate for the Head Teacher position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher - Specialist School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Head Teacher position. Highlight your relevant experience in working with pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and how it aligns with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your leadership experience within SEND/SLD settings. Emphasise your qualifications, such as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to foster a nurturing and inclusive educational environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your vision for the new SLD-focused school. Discuss your approach to developing a bespoke curriculum and how you plan to create a therapeutic, person-centred ethos.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, make sure to highlight your skills in managing behaviour that challenges, supporting neurodiverse students, and fostering high expectations. Provide examples of how you've successfully implemented these skills in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at dSb Recruitment
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with children with severe learning difficulties. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your leadership experience, particularly in SEND/SLD settings. Discuss how you've successfully led teams, developed curriculums, and fostered inclusive practices in previous roles.
✨Understand the Unique Needs of SLD Learners
Be ready to discuss the specific challenges faced by students with severe learning difficulties. Show your understanding of how to create tailored educational experiences that promote independence and emotional regulation.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work closely with other professionals, such as therapists and residential managers. Discuss how you plan to create a seamless integration of care and education to support the holistic development of each student.
