Polaris EducationExecutive HeadteacherReports to: Managing Director of EducationLocation: South East and East of EnglandSalary: Circa £70,000 per annum plus car allowanceContract: Full Time, PermanentStart Date: ASAPJob DescriptionOverviewPolaris Education is seeking an Executive Headteacher to lead the Polaris South East and East of England region, overseeing up to six schools, including leading the opening of at least one new school. This is an exciting and influential role for a visionary leader with a strong background in curriculum, school improvement, SEND, and commercial acumen.The successful candidate will report to the Managing Director of Education and will work collaboratively with the leadership team to support and embed the Care Connect Consolidate strategy across the portfolio.Key Responsibilities1. Strategic Leadership and School ImprovementProvide visionary leadership for up to six schools within the specified region, focusing on maintaining high educational standards and fostering a positive school cultureWork alongside organic growth project managers to spearhead the opening of new schools, managing all aspects of the provision, including regulatory compliance, staffing and operational readinessDrive school improvement initiatives, working closely with Headteachers to deliver high-quality outcomes for students, particularly those with complex SEND needsOversee the implementation of the Care Connect Consolidate strategy across the schools, embedding Polaris' core values and ensuring consistency of approachWork closely with the Managing Director of Education and colleagues within the central team to ensure that schools are suitably resourced and supported effectively to achieve the best outcomes for childrenLead on assigned key strategic projects and initiatives across the portfolio to enhance school performanceCollaborate with other senior leaders across Polaris to support shared best practices2. Line Management and Staff DevelopmentLine manage Headteachers, providing mentorship, supervision, guidance, and performance management to ensure that each school meets its educational and operational goalsSupport professional development and leadership growth within each school's senior leadership team, fostering a collaborative and supportive leadership cultureWork with the Learning and Development team to deliver training programmes for school leaders on building and maintaining effective relationships with external stakeholdersProvide guidance on managing HR issues, including grievance and disciplinary procedures, and support in conducting investigationsFacilitate training on interviewing, candidate selection, and best practices in HR management3. Curriculum, Teaching and Learning Quality AssuranceLead the rigorous monitoring, evaluation and continuous improvement of the curriculum, teaching and learning across all schools, ensuring provision is ambitious, inclusive and responsive to the individual needs of pupilsEnsure that curriculum design and delivery provide appropriate stretch, challenge and aspiration for all learners, particularly those with more complex SEND profilesMaintain a clear focus on preparing pupils effectively for their next steps, including further education, employment and independent living, through carefully sequenced learning, meaningful experiences and personalised pathwaysEmbed robust and proportionate progress tracking systems that accurately capture small-step progress and inform teachingEnsure pupils have access to appropriate, recognised and accredited qualifications wherever possibleRegularly review and refine provision to ensure alignment with current frameworks, statutory requirements and regulatory expectations, including Ofsted and ISSR, and promote the consistent use of evidence-informed and developmentally appropriate pedagogical approaches to secure strong outcomes for every child4. SEND Expertise and Stakeholder EngagementEnsure schools are compliant with the SEND Code of Practice and oversee provision for children with complex needs such as Autism, ADHD, FASD and trauma-related needsChampion therapeutic and trauma-informed practices, working closely with staff to embed the Polaris therapeutic model, providing child-centred individualised support that promotes emotional resilience and self-regulationEnsure all schools meet the requirements of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and offer high-quality, inclusive educational experiencesBuild and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including local authorities, community organisations and industry partnersCommunicate effectively to manage expectations and foster positive collaborationsEngage with stakeholders to support school improvement and secure additional resources or support5. Strategic Safeguarding ResponsibilityAct as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the region, providing guidance and support on safeguarding issues and liaising with external agencies as necessaryDevelop and implement a strategic safeguarding framework across all schools in the regionEnsure that safeguarding policies and procedures are robust, up-to-date, and compliant with legal requirementsOversee the implementation of safeguarding practices, including training for staff on child protection and safeguardingMonitor and review safeguarding practices and address any areas of concern promptly and effectively6. Regulatory and ComplianceEnsure all schools within the portfolio meet the Independent School Standards (ISS), Ofsted requirements and safeguarding regulationsLead inspections and external reviews, ensuring that schools are always prepared for regulatory scrutinyOversee risk management and quality assurance processes across the schools7. Business Model and Commercial AcumenLead with a strong commercial understanding of the business model, ensuring schools are financially sustainable and operationally efficientStrategically manage consultations and referrals from local authorities, overseeing admissions, initial assessments and funding negotiations, including pupil premium grantsEngage with schools and external stakeholders to manage at-risk placements and ensure that each child's needs are met through personalised educational plans and interventionsOversee budget management for the schools, ensuring effective utilisation of resources, cost-effective procurement of goods and services and financial sustainabilityUnderstand and manage EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) to achieve financial targetsTake responsibility for revenue generation and utilisation, including managing pupil premium grants and other funding sources8. Care, Compassion and Growth MindsetFoster a caring, compassionate and empathetic school culture, with a focus on emotional wellbeing for pupils and staffDemonstrate a growth mindset and inspire others to continually improve their practice and strive for excellenceBuild strong relationships with pupils, staff, parents, colleagues in residential services and the wider community to promote a shared vision for inclusive educationPerson SpecificationEssential: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with significant experience in educational leadership roles such as Regional Director, Education Lead or PrincipalNational qualification for Headship (NPQH) National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership (NPQEL)/ Higher degree in Education leadershipDesirable: Multi-site leadership experience with proven ability to lead new school openings and manage large-scale projectsEssential: Proven experience in leading SEND provision and working with children with complex needs, including Autism, ADHD, FASD and trauma-related conditionsEssential: Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice, Independent School Standards (ISS) and Ofsted regulatory requirementsEssential: Demonstrated school improvement experience with a track record of raising educational standardsEssential: Therapeutic and trauma-informed approach to education and behaviour managementEssential: In-depth knowledge of strategic safeguarding practices and experience in leading safeguarding initiativesEssential: Excellent commercial acumen and experience in managing financial sustainability in schools, including handling local authority consultations and referralsEssential: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholdersCompassionate and empathetic, with a passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable studentsWhat We OfferThe opportunity to lead a growing portfolio of specialist schools within a supportive and innovative organisationA platform to drive meaningful change in SEND education, with autonomy to shape the future of the schools you leadA collaborative leadership environment, offering opportunities for professional development and career progressionA chance to make a significant impact on the educational experiences of pupils with complex needsHow to ApplyPlease submit your CV and cover letter to
or call for an informal chat on 07920 212308.Join Polaris Education and lead a region of schools dedicated to providing exceptional, inclusive education for children with complex needs!
PandoLogic. Category:Education, Keywords:Education Project Manager, Location:Milton Keynes, ENG-MK17 8LX
Executive Headteacher in Great Horwood employer: Polaris Community
At Redstone Hall School in Ipswich, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to the emotional health and wellbeing of our staff and students alike. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through a variety of development opportunities, while our commitment to providing high-quality education ensures that you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable children. Join our passionate team and contribute to a positive environment where every member feels valued and empowered.
