At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the launch of a new specialist school and create an inspiring vision for education.
- Company: Polaris Children's Services, transforming lives for over 30 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, enhanced pension, and life insurance.
- Other info: Join a supportive community dedicated to high-quality specialist education.
- Why this job: Shape a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and achieve their potential.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and leadership experience in education.
All potential candidates should read through the following details of this job with care before making an application.
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 (dependent on experience)
Full-Time | Term Time Only
Projected Opening: September 2026
Lead the opening of a brand-new specialist school and create a place where every child can thrive. Polaris Children's Services is seeking an inspirational Head Teacher to lead the launch of Dunsley Hall School, a new specialist provision in Kinver supporting children and young people aged 5-16 with a range of complex additional needs. This is a rare opportunity to shape a school's culture, recruit and develop an exceptional team, and establish an environment where pupils feel safe, valued and empowered to achieve their full potential.
As part of the Polaris Community, you'll join an organisation with more than 30 years' experience transforming the lives of vulnerable children and young people. Every Polaris education provision is rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, reflecting the organisation's unwavering commitment to high-quality specialist education.
About Dunsley Hall School
Opening in September 2026, Dunsley Hall School will provide education for up to 100 pupils aged 5-16 with a range of complex needs. The school has been designed around a nurturing, personalised approach where academic achievement sits alongside emotional wellbeing, independence and personal development. Every aspect of the provision has been created to help pupils develop the confidence and skills they need for the next stage of their education and beyond.
The Opportunity
As Founding Head Teacher, you'll play a central role in bringing the school's vision to life. Working closely with the Polaris leadership team, you'll build a positive school culture, establish high standards from the outset and ensure every pupil receives an exceptional education tailored to their individual needs.
Your Responsibilities
- Creating and delivering an inspiring vision for the school
- Recruiting, developing and leading a high-performing staff team
- Ensuring the school consistently meets the Independent School Standards and Education Inspection Framework
- Acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead and embedding an outstanding safeguarding culture
- Developing an ambitious, engaging curriculum tailored to pupils' individual learning needs and EHCP outcomes
- Championing outstanding pastoral care, emotional wellbeing and inclusion
- Building strong relationships with families, local authorities and external professionals
- Establishing a collaborative, supportive and values-led school community
- Driving continuous improvement and preparing the school for future Ofsted success
About You
We're looking for an experienced and compassionate school leader who combines strategic vision with a genuine passion for improving the lives of children with additional needs.
You’ll Have:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Leadership experience within a primary, secondary or specialist school
- Experience supporting pupils with SEND and an excellent understanding of their needs
- The ability to inspire, motivate and develop high-performing teams
- Excellent communication, leadership and relationship-building skills
- A commitment to creating an inclusive, nurturing and ambitious learning environment
A first degree and/or NPQH would be advantageous but are not essential.
Why Join Polaris?
Alongside the opportunity to shape a brand-new school, you'll benefit from:
- Salary of £50,000-£60,000, dependent on experience
- Professional development and leadership progression opportunities
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Life Insurance (2x salary)
- Medical Cash Plan
- Employee Discount Scheme
- Free on-site parking
- High-quality CPD through both internal and external providers
- The support of an experienced national network of specialist schools
Build Something That Lasts
If you're an ambitious leader who believes every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, we'd love to hear from you. This is your opportunity to establish a school that will have a lasting impact on children, families and the wider community for years to come.
Founding Head Teacher – New Specialist School employer: Polaris Community
At Headway Adolescent Resources, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for both our staff and the children in our care. Located in the tranquil setting of East Huntspill, Highbridge, we offer competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and a strong commitment to professional development, ensuring that our Registered Managers have the support and resources needed to thrive. Join our passionate team and make a meaningful impact while enjoying a positive work culture that values resilience, collaboration, and the voices of those we serve.
