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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to enhance special education outcomes.
- Company: SEN Trust Southend, committed to inclusivity and excellence in education.
- Benefits: Supportive Board, passionate team, and opportunities to shape SEND education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in special education and strong strategic skills required.
- Other info: Join us in a culture of compassion, ambition, and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
SEN Trust Southend is using its own application form. Please download and view it as Essex School Jobs cannot automatically fill out an application form that has been created by a school. You will need to download the application form before you are able to complete it.
Job Ref No. ECC8827005-81L
Position Type: Executive Headteacher
Pay Range: Leadership Scale Point 38-42
Position Start Date: 01/09/2026
Contract Type: Full-time
Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 06/02/2026 4pm
Date of Interviews: 24th/25th February 2026
Shortlisting Starts: 10/02/2026
Salary: Leadership points 38-42
Contract Type: Permanent full time
Our academies are open for 39 weeks per year. There is a requirement with this role to be available during a portion of the holiday periods for the performance of your professional duties. Start Date: September 2026
Inspire. Lead. Develop.
Due to the retirement of our founding CEO, the SEN Trust is recruiting an exceptional CEO to lead our small and successful Trust into its next phase of development. With a strong foundation and a clear moral purpose, our Trust is committed to continuing to deliver outstanding outcomes for pupils with complex needs across our four specialist Academies: The St. Christopher School, Kingsdown School, Lancaster School and St. Nicholas School. Our values promote inclusivity; meeting the needs of all our students, whatever the background. We have high aspirations for our students and promote a voice for everyone, whilst also ensuring accountability and transparency in our practices.
About the Role:
- Develop existing networks with local and national partners to ensure the long‑term future of the Trust.
- Be a visible and values‑driven leader for our community; including representations with Local Authority Officers.
- Drive development and innovation, being proactive in recognizing future challenges and opportunities in special education.
- Champion the highest standards of education, care, and inclusion.
- Provide strategic leadership and direction across the Trust, whilst enabling each school and Headteacher to maintain their own school's identity within the umbrella of the Trust.
- Work closely with Headteachers, Trustees, the MAT central staff team, and partners including Christopher's Cottage respite center (on‑site at The St. Christopher School).
- Ensure financial health and regulatory compliance, as Accounting Officer for the Trust.
- Hold responsibility for safeguarding across the Trust.
- Further centralisation of MAT services for the benefit of all Schools.
What we are Looking For:
- Proven leadership experience at executive or senior level in special education or a related sector (preferably at Headteacher level).
- Deep understanding of SEND and inclusive practice.
- Strong strategic, financial, and operational acumen to ensure that resources and people are deployed effectively and efficiently.
- Inspirational communicator and relationship‑builder, who demonstrates empathy and understanding, relating well to people at all levels, whilst motivating them to do their best.
- Commitment to equity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, always upholding strong ethics and values.
- Keeping our pupils' wellbeing and outcomes at the centre of our focus.
We Offer:
- A dedicated and passionate team of professionals to support in the role.
- A supportive and engaged Board of Trustees.
- Opportunities to shape the future of SEND education in our area.
- A culture rooted in compassion, ambition and excellence.
To Apply:
Visits and discussion encouraged 19th‑23rd January 2026 – to be arranged in advance by email: JMullan@sentrustsouthend.co.uk. Application forms to be completed via MyNewTerm platform. Closing date: 6th February 2026. Shortlisting dates: 10th February 2026. References: Referees will be contacted prior to the interview date. Interview dates: 24th/25th February 2026.
Information about the School: The SEN Trust is a Multi‑Academy Trust comprising four special schools: Kingsdown School, Lancaster School, St. Nicholas School and The St. Christopher School. The schools work closely with local authorities and parents to meet the needs of pupils, as outlined in their Education and Health Care Plans. They provide support and guidance to enable pupils to progress their education and learn life skills to maximise their abilities and achieve independence.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Leigh-on-Sea employer: SEN Trust Southend, Leigh on Sea
Contact Detail:
SEN Trust Southend, Leigh on Sea Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Leigh-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with special education. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Be visible! Attend events or forums related to SEND and education leadership. Show up, engage, and let people know who you are and what you stand for. It’s all about making those personal connections.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the SEN Trust Southend thoroughly. Understand their values and mission, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your approach to resonate with their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at SEN Trust Southend.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Leigh-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Download the Application Form: First things first, make sure you download the application form from our website. It’s essential to have the right document before you start filling it out, so don’t skip this step!
Tailor Your Responses: When you're filling out the application, take the time to tailor your responses to reflect your experience and values. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission of supporting pupils with complex needs.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a CEO, your leadership experience is crucial. Make sure to highlight your proven track record in special education or related sectors, and how you've inspired teams to achieve their best.
Check Your Application Before Submitting: Before you hit that submit button, give your application a thorough once-over. Typos and errors can distract from your message, so let’s make sure everything is polished and professional!
How to prepare for a job interview at SEN Trust Southend, Leigh on Sea
✨Know Your Trust
Before the interview, take some time to research SEN Trust Southend thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and the specific needs of the students they serve. This will help you align your vision with theirs and demonstrate your commitment to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a CEO, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading teams, fostering inclusivity, and driving innovation. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully navigated challenges in special education.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about your strategic vision for the Trust. Think about how you would develop existing networks and ensure financial health. Prepare to discuss potential future challenges in special education and how you would address them.
✨Engage with Empathy
Demonstrating empathy is key in this role. Be ready to share how you’ve built relationships with various stakeholders, including parents, staff, and local authorities. Highlight your commitment to equity and continuous improvement, ensuring that the wellbeing of pupils remains at the forefront of your decisions.
