At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the school, manage operations, and ensure high-quality education for all students.
- Company: Join Orbis Education and Care, a dedicated team focused on educational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, health plans, and discounts with Blue Light Card.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in students' lives while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 4 Diploma in School Business Management or equivalent experience required.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check due to regulated activities.
About The Role Dan Y Coed School | West Cross | Full-Time | Permanent | Term Time only. Salary: £42000 – £46000 ; depending on experience and qualifications. We are seeking a Head of School to join our dedicated team. This critical leadership role involves overseeing key operational functions, ensuring the school meets its aims while promoting the highest standards of business ethos. You will manage finance, administration, ICT, HR, facilities and property, health and safety, and examinations. Additionally, you will be the first point of contact for many stakeholders, requiring empathy, diplomacy, and professionalism. Orbis Education and Care supports children and adults with autism and complex needs, providing person-centred care to help individuals thrive. As Head of School, you'll lead a team that focuses on each person's strengths. Located in West Cross, Swansea, Dan y Coed offers a safe, supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and make lasting memories on their path to independence. The Regional Executive Head has overall strategic responsibility for the school, however, The Head of School is a key role as a school leader. The Head of School will provide professional leadership and be responsible for the day-to-day efficient management of the school, thus ensuring a high-quality education for all the pupils. The Head of School will support the Executive Head and Director of Education to build and nurture an excellent educational provision. Designated Safeguarding Lead – to take lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection. The Head of School will manage the day-to-day operations, ensuring high-quality education for all pupils. This role supports the Executive Head and Director of Education in providing excellent educational provision. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Management: Lead by example with integrity and resilience. Ensure collaboration among staff, parents, governors, and external agencies to support students’ academic and well-being. Safeguarding: Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies and making appropriate referrals when necessary. Pupils & Staff: Set ambitious standards for student achievement. Support staff development, hold them accountable for performance, and create a positive learning environment. Systems & Processes: Maintain efficient school systems, ensuring transparency and safety. Oversee staff performance, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with policies. School Improvement: Drive continuous improvement by collaborating with other schools, leveraging research, and leading professional development. Implement the school improvement plan and maintain self-evaluation practices.The Head of School will ensure that the school's objectives align with local and national standards, working closely with leadership to deliver the best outcomes for pupils. What We're Looking for: Level 4 Diploma in School Business Management or equivalent experience. Proven experience in financial management and understanding of school operational frameworks. Proficiency in IT systems, including Excel and budgeting tools. Knowledge of compliance regulations (Financial, HR, Safeguarding, GDPR, Health and Safety). Strong project management and strategic planning skills. Exceptional organisational and time management abilities. High-level communication skills, both verbal and written. Empathy, tact, and diplomacy in handling sensitive situations. Strong leadership and team management experience. Please note: This job role involves regulated activity with adults and children and requires an enhanced DBS with barred list check. Why Join Orbis Education and Care? Career Growth: With a commitment to internal promotion and valuable qualification, 97% of our managers have progressed from within. Work-Life Balance: Monday to Friday schedule with no weekend or evening work. Benefits: Health Plan, Blue Light Card discounts, and a generous Refer a Friend Scheme. Don't waste any more time, if you are ready to embark on a rewarding career as a Head of School at Orbis Education and Care, we would love to hear from you. To apply please submit your CV using the 'apply' link. Orbis Education and Care is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, welcoming applications from all backgrounds. Orbis Education and Care is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal data. By applying, you understand that the personal data collected about you as part of our application and registration process will be used in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Notice. Full details on how we collect and process your data and your rights can be viewed here: (url removed)
Head of School employer: Orbis Education & Care Ltd
Contact Detail:
Orbis Education & Care Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific operational frameworks of schools. Understanding how finance, HR, and compliance regulations work in an educational setting will give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your leadership experience by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven school improvement initiatives. Be ready to discuss your approach to fostering collaboration among staff and stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding and child protection by being well-versed in current policies and practices. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Orbis Education and Care's values and mission. Tailor your discussions to reflect how your personal ethos aligns with their commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering an inclusive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in leadership, financial management, and school operations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to meet the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for education and leadership. Address how your skills align with the role of Head of School, emphasizing your experience in safeguarding, staff development, and school improvement.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your Level 4 Diploma in School Business Management or equivalent experience. Include any additional qualifications or training that relate to compliance regulations, project management, or strategic planning.
Showcase Communication Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, demonstrate your high-level communication skills. Use clear and professional language, and provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orbis Education & Care Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of School, demonstrating your leadership abilities is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed conflicts, and fostered collaboration among staff and stakeholders.
✨Understand Financial Management
Since financial management is a key responsibility, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting and financial oversight. Highlight any specific tools or systems you have used to manage school finances effectively.
✨Emphasize Safeguarding Knowledge
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, be prepared to talk about your understanding of safeguarding policies and your experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead. Share any relevant training or situations where you ensured compliance.
✨Communicate with Empathy and Diplomacy
This role requires high-level communication skills. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and empathetically, especially when discussing sensitive topics. Show that you can handle difficult conversations with tact and professionalism.