At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a Trust dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
- Company: Orchard Hill College Academy Trust, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and the chance to shape educational strategies.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to excellence and growth in SEND education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people and lead innovative educational initiatives.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
Overview
Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) is a family of specialist academies supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire.
The Trust operates 13 special schools, alongside integrated support services including therapy and nursing, and a central team covering HR, Finance, IT and Estates.
Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) was established under the sponsorship of Orchard Hill College (OHC), a specialist further education provider with a long-standing reputation for excellence in supporting learners with severe, profound, and complex needs.
This founding relationship has shaped the Trust's development from the outset, embedding a shared commitment to high‑quality provision, specialist expertise, and a deep understanding of how to support some of the most vulnerable young people in the education system.
Since its inception, OHCAT has grown into a significant Multi-Academy Trust serving over 2,000 learners with special educational needs and disabilities across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Berkshire.
Pupils present with a wide range of needs, including autism, speech, language and communication difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs, and complex physical and learning disabilities.
As both organisations have matured and expanded, governance and leadership arrangements are evolving to reflect their respective scale and ambitions, with a move toward dedicated executive leadership for each, underpinned by a formal partnership agreement that will sustain the collaboration, shared learning, and mutual support that have defined their relationship.
The incoming OHCAT CEO will lead a Trust that is established, well‑supported, and confident in its identity, with a close and valued partner in Orchard Hill College.
This is a pivotal moment.
As OHCAT moves forward independently, there is a unique opportunity to sharpen its identity, enhance its influence and position it as a leading voice in SEND and inclusive education.
Responsibilities
- Report to the Board of Trustees and provide clear, values‑led leadership, setting strategic direction.
- Ensure strong outcomes for learners and maintain financial and organisational sustainability.
- Lead the development of a new strategy, shape the Trust’s operating model and strengthen its external profile through effective partnerships and sector engagement.
- Lead the Trust in its transition to independence, sharpening its identity and enhancing its influence as a leading voice in SEND and inclusive education.
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Chief Executive in City of Westminster employer: Orchard Hill College
Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With a strong commitment to high-quality provision and specialist expertise, OHCAT provides unique opportunities for growth and leadership in the education sector, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable young people across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Berkshire.
