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- Tasks: Lead a nurturing school for students with special educational needs, focusing on inclusive education.
- Company: Join the Polaris Community, dedicated to improving young lives for over 30 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, enhanced pension, free parking, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in students' lives while fostering a supportive and empowering environment.
- Qualifications: Must have Qualified Teacher Status and experience with SEN students; leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a full-time, term-time only position with a competitive salary.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Head Teacher – Andover School
Location: Andover, Hants
Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 dependent on experience
Contract: Full Time (Term Time Only) Permanent
Additional Benefits: Professional Development opportunities, Enhanced pension scheme, Free on-site parking, CPD through internal and external providers, Salary sacrifice schemes such as Cycle to Work, Life Insurance x 2, Employee Discount Scheme & Medical Cash Plan
Opening Date: April 2026
Are you a compassionate and dedicated educational leader? Do you have a passion for supporting students with special educational needs (SEN)? We are seeking an exceptional Head Teacher to lead our nurturing and inclusive school community.
About the School
Located in Andover, our School offers a capacity of up to 60 pupils and safe and supportive environments for pupils from 5 to 16 years old with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that academic progress is complemented by emotional well-being and personal growth.
Andover School will form part of the Polaris Community alongside our current growing portfolio of school across the UK, which are all rated by Ofsted Good or Outstanding. The Polaris Community have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years.
About you
As the Head Teacher, you will be a forward-thinking leader, who will play a pivotal role in building a new team and shaping the educational experience for our students.
Key Responsibilities:
Educational Leadership: Develop and implement a vision that aligns with our ethos of the Polaris Community embracing compassion, inclusion, and personalized learning. Be able to lead the school to consistently meet the requirements of the Independent School Standards and the Education Inspection Framework.
Safeguarding; Acting as the Designated Safeguarding lead and collaborating with safeguarding partners, manage and report all concerns appropriately and put in place policies and procedures to develop a robust safeguarding culture in the school.
Curriculum Enhancement: Adapt and tailor the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of our students, ensuring a stimulating and engaging learning journey preparing pupils for next step.
Pastoral Care and SEN Advocacy: Champion a nurturing pastoral approach, emphasizing emotional well-being, mental health, and social development. Advocate for the rights and needs of our SEN students, aligned with EHCP objectives, within the wider educational community.
Staff Development: Support and mentor staff, promoting continuous professional growth and fostering a collaborative team spirit.
Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and external partners to create a cohesive support network, ensuring the growth and development of the school.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with Primary/Secondary teaching experience.
- Suitable First degree and /or NPQH ( not essential)
- Experience working with SEN students and a deep understanding of their unique requirements.
- Proven leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate others. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply today. Suitable candidates will then be asked to complete a formal application pack ahead of an interview.
Join us on this exciting journey to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this role more, please contact Zoe Chittenden 07920 212308
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Head Teacher employer: Polaris
Contact Detail:
Polaris Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ethos and values of the Polaris Community. Understanding their commitment to compassion, inclusion, and personalised learning will help you align your vision for the school with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members from the Polaris Community schools. They can provide valuable insights into the culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when discussing your leadership style and approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past to support SEN students. Highlighting your experience and success in this area will demonstrate your capability to advocate for these students effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've developed and mentored staff in previous roles. This will illustrate your ability to foster a collaborative team spirit, which is crucial for the Head Teacher position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Head Teacher position. Familiarise yourself with the ethos of the Polaris Community and how it aligns with your own educational philosophy.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly in educational leadership and working with SEN students. Emphasise your qualifications, such as QTS and any additional certifications, and showcase your achievements in previous roles.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for education and your commitment to supporting students with special needs. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you embody the qualities they are looking for in a Head Teacher.
Prepare for the Application Pack: Once you submit your initial application, be ready to complete a formal application pack. Gather any necessary documents, such as references and proof of qualifications, and ensure you can articulate your vision for the school during the interview process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine passion for education and supporting students with special educational needs. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Discuss your approach to mentoring staff and how you plan to build a cohesive team at the school, aligning with the ethos of the Polaris Community.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the school's mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly in terms of curriculum enhancement and pastoral care.
✨Prepare for Safeguarding Questions
As safeguarding is a key responsibility, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and your experience in this area. Highlight any relevant training or initiatives you've implemented to ensure a safe learning environment.
