Head of School – Birkenhead

At EdStart, our principal values are Progression — we are committed to helping every student achieve their fullest potential, regardless of their individual challenges. Further to this, we uphold the values of Humanity, Togetherness, and Compassion, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for both students and staff. We are proud to embrace diversity in all its forms and are committed to building a workforce that reflects this ethos. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage individuals to apply regardless of sex, race, religion, belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, age, disability, marriage, or civil partnership.

The Role: As Head of School at EdStart, you will have the opportunity to lead and manage a dynamic team within an SEN/SEMH provision for students aged 11-16. You will play a critical role in providing high-quality education tailored to the individual needs of students with social, emotional, and mental health challenges. In collaboration with the Executive Headteacher, you will lead the operational aspects of the school, ensuring both the academic and emotional needs of students are met, while supporting their reintegration into mainstream education and positive post-16 pathways.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the school, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students.
• Collaborate closely with the Headteacher, teachers, tutors, and support staff to maintain high standards of student behaviour, engagement, and achievement.
• Oversee the implementation of teaching programs, ensuring they are adapted to meet the diverse needs of students with SEN/SEMH.
• Line manage teachers and support staff, providing support, development, and guidance to ensure that all staff meet individual students’ needs effectively.
• Work with school staff to regularly assess and monitor student progress, ensuring that each student’s needs are met in line with their learning plans.
• Support the transition and reintegration of students into mainstream schools or post-16 education through effective planning and collaboration with external agencies.
• Build and maintain strong links with other schools, agencies, and external providers to support the delivery of the curriculum and the reintegration of students.
• Manage a portion of the school’s budget allocated to learning resources and materials.
• Ensure the safeguarding and welfare of all students, taking on the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and undertaking necessary training.

Performance Expectations:

• Lead and coordinate projects in collaboration with the Headteacher, HR, and other team members to enhance the overall educational provision.
• Ensure that all curricular information and communication are kept up-to-date and accurate, including reporting to local authorities and referring agencies.
• Act as the designated teacher responsible for Looked After Children (LAC) and contribute to statutory reviews.
• Mentor and support staff in developing their pedagogical skills to improve teaching and pastoral care.
• Address performance issues among staff promptly to maintain high standards in teaching and pastoral care.
• Ensure lessons consistently model best practices for teaching and behaviour management.
• Lead staff workshops and development activities focused on improving teaching and supporting the social and emotional needs of students.
• Implement a consistent approach to behaviour management that is personalised to meet the individual needs of students while reflecting the core values of EdStart.
• Promote a culture of high expectations, achievement, and personal development within the team, fostering belief in the strengths and potential of every student.
• Foster strong partnerships with parents and families to ensure student success.
• Support the use of formative and diagnostic assessments to drive continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
• Work with senior leadership, SENCOs, and external specialists to ensure students make maximum progress in core subjects like reading, mathematics, and ICT.
• Ensure all required information is provided to senior leadership, SENCOs, and external agencies within agreed timeframes.
• Adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
• Take on additional responsibilities as directed by senior leadership.
• Carry out the professional duties of a teacher as outlined in the Teacher Standards.

Why Work at EdStart Schools?

• Inclusive and Supportive Environment: At EdStart, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment where all students, regardless of their needs, can thrive.
• Collaborative Team: Join a passionate and dedicated team of educators, specialists, and support staff who work together to make a real difference in students’ lives.
• Professional Development: We provide a wide range of professional development opportunities to help you grow as an educator, particularly in the areas of SEN and SEMH.
• Impactful Work: You will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who need support the most, helping them achieve both academically and emotionally.
• Work-Life Balance: We understand the importance of staff well-being and offer a supportive environment that helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Safeguarding and Recruitment: EdStart Specialist Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. This post is subject to a fully enhanced DBS check. As part of our due diligence process, we will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026 guidelines.

How to apply? Please complete the application form below:

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