At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to transform the lives of children with learning disabilities.
- Company: Join Solent Academies Trust, a community focused on connection, respect, and belonging.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an Outstanding rated academy with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while shaping the future of education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for supporting students with complex needs.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
Location: Dove House Academy, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5SU
Full-time, permanent (start date to be negotiated with successful candidate)
Salary: Leadership Scale L19-L23
Solent Academies Trust is looking for an exceptional leader to become the Head of School at Dove House Academy, a large and highly regarded secondary special school dedicated to transforming the lives of children with learning disabilities and associated conditions such as autism and speech, language and communication needs.
This is a rare opportunity to be a key member of the leadership team of a multi-site school that is part of a highly successful Trust on to its next stage of development by shaping its vision, culture, and provision to deliver exceptional specialist education and to contribute to Trust-wide strategic developments.
At Solent Academies Trust, we are proud to be a community built on connection, respect, and belonging. Our Relational Culture Charter guides us to work together and support each other through:
- Valuing Difference
- Effective Communication
- High Challenge & High Support to Empower
- Respect for All
- Solution-Focused Approaches
We believe that when relationships thrive, people thrive – and so do the children and young people we serve.
About Dove House Academy:
- Part of Solent Academies Trust since 2023
- Educates nearly 250 children
- Operates over two sites, with a Sixth Form co-located with a mainstream secondary school
- Is rated Outstanding by Ofsted (February 2025)
Who we’re looking for:
The Head of School will work closely with the Executive Principal, so we are looking for an experienced leader who is an exceptional practitioner with a proven track record of securing excellent outcomes for pupils who is looking to take their next step in strategic leadership. You will be a confident communicator who is able to motivate and develop teams. You will strike the very careful balance between offering highly effective support and development to those that you lead, alongside providing rigorous challenge and accountability. You will have a confident understanding of safeguarding and of strategies to support the behaviour and attendance of pupils with complex needs including autism.
How to Apply:
Contact James Hall at Hays for an informal conversation about the role. Please visit our jobs board to complete the application form and to upload an accompanying covering letter.
Closing time and date for applications is 4pm, Wednesday 9th December 2026. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 16th December 2026. All applicants will be advised if they have been shortlisted on Thursday 10th December.
Solent Academies Trust welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or religion. Only applications submitted on the academy’s application form will be accepted. Solent Academies Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant pre-employment checks.
Head of School - Dove House Academy in Basingstoke employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that prioritises respect, integrity, and collaboration. As a SEN Team Leader, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with special educational needs, while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment. Located in the vibrant city of Portsmouth, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to strategic SEND developments and be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to service improvement and community well-being.
