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- Tasks: Lead and inspire staff at Hollis Academy to improve educational outcomes for students with special needs.
- Company: Horizons Specialist Academy Trust supports over 1000 students across eight academies in the Tees Valley.
- Benefits: Enjoy a warm, friendly environment with extensive professional learning opportunities and supportive leadership.
- Why this job: Join a dedicated team committed to excellence and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Significant experience with SEMHD students and proven leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Application deadline is 12 noon on Friday, 5th September, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 65287 - 72162 £ per year.
HORIZONS SPECIALIST ACADEMY TRUST
HOLLIS ACADEMY
Saltersgill Avenue
Middlesbrough
TS4 3JS
VICE PRINCIPAL
Leadership Scale 12-16 (£65,287 to £72,162)
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust consists of eight Academies and one Sixth Form across the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire area serving a population in excess of 1000 students aged 5 to 19 with a broad range of learning difficulties.
Hollis Academy is situated in Middlesbrough and provides for up to 85 pupils aged 11 to 16 years who have SEMHD as their identified primary need. Hollis Academy joined the Trust in October 2016 as a sponsor academy. Since that time, rapid progress towards improvement has been realised due to the commitment of the staff team, the positive leadership of the Principal and the robust support from the Trust’s Executive Principal.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and inspirational senior leader for the posts of Vice Principal to lead the staff team at Hollis Academy. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, dedicated and energetic in leading the academy in the continuing journey of school improvement.
In addition to supporting the CEO, Deputy CEO, Executive Principal and Principal in the overall management and leadership of the academy, the successful candidate will lead on approaches to Qualify of Education & Achievement and Outcomes, the development and delivery of the curriculum, teaching, learning and assessment and take responsibility for the monitoring and evaluation of practice in order to promote the attainment and achievement of all students.
The successful candidate will:
- Have significant experience of working with students with special educational needs, in particular SEMHD and associated learning difficulties.
- Be an outstanding and experienced leader and practitioner.
- Provide effective leadership in raising standards of attainment and achievement.
- Lead on approaches to Quality of Education and Achievement and Outcomes.
- Work collegiately to build on the strengths of the Academy and Trust.
- Be able to motivate staff that are fully engaged in the goal of achieving excellence in all areas of the Academy both personally and professionally
The Trust can offer:
- An ambitious and proactive Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive and Board of Directors.
- An experienced and supportive Executive Principal
- A collegiate team of Trust Principals.
- A committed and dedicated team of cross-Trust staff and services including Finance, HR, Governance, Admin and IT.
- Excellent systems and structures.
- A warm, friendly academy which provides a positive learning environment.
- Extensive and varied professional learning opportunities.
- A modern learning environment for students with SEMHD.
An application form and further information is available to download from the Horizons Trust website https://www.horizonstrust.org.uk/jobs or by emailing HSATHR@horizonstrust.org.uk
Completed application forms should be returned by 12 noon on Friday, 5th September, 2025 to: HSATHR@horizonstrust.org.uk or by post to HR Department, c/o Abbey Hill Academy (Registered Office), Ketton Road, Stockton-on-Tees. TS19 8BU.
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As part of our recruitment process, online searches will be conducted. Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check and appropriate references. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Vice Principal - Hollis Academy (Horizons Specialist Academy Trust ) employer: North East Jobs
Contact Detail:
North East Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice Principal - Hollis Academy (Horizons Specialist Academy Trust )
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with SEMHD. Understanding their challenges and how to support them effectively will demonstrate your commitment to improving their educational experience.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at Hollis Academy or within the Horizons Specialist Academy Trust. Gaining insights into the academy's culture and leadership style can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with the academy's goals. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in raising standards and achieving excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in special education and curriculum development. Being knowledgeable about innovative practices will show that you are proactive and dedicated to continuous improvement in education.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice Principal - Hollis Academy (Horizons Specialist Academy Trust )
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Vice Principal position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in leading educational initiatives, particularly with students who have special educational needs.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your leadership experience, particularly in special education settings. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements in raising standards and improving student outcomes.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the academy's mission. Highlight your leadership style and how it aligns with the goals of Hollis Academy. Be sure to mention your commitment to fostering a positive learning environment for students with SEMHD.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Submit your completed application form by the specified deadline and ensure all required documents are included. Double-check your email address and contact information before sending.
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Jobs
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Vice Principal, your leadership skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, improved educational outcomes, and managed challenges in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Understanding of SEMHD
Given the focus on students with special educational needs, particularly SEMHD, ensure you articulate your experience and strategies for supporting these learners. Highlight any relevant training or initiatives you've implemented.
✨Engage with the Academy's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Hollis Academy's mission and values. During the interview, express how your personal educational philosophy aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their ongoing improvement journey.
✨Prepare Questions for the Panel
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the academy's current challenges, future plans, and how the Vice Principal role fits into their overall strategy. This shows your genuine interest and proactive mindset.
