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- Tasks: Lead a dedicated team to provide exceptional education for students with complex needs.
- Company: Acorns School is a specialist SEN school focused on nurturing and supporting young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, enhanced pension, training opportunities, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while shaping the future of education.
- Qualifications: Must have QTS/QTLS and at least two years' experience in a SEND environment.
- Other info: This is a full-time, permanent role split across two sites in Knutsford and Stockport.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 70000 £ per year.
Location: Knutsford & Stockport (Split Across Two Sites)
Salary: Competitive, Based on Experience
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: £45,000 - £70,000
Join the school as their New Headteacher. Are you an experienced and passionate leader ready to make a difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND? Acorns School is seeking a committed and inspiring Headteacher to lead our dedicated team and drive forward our vision for providing exceptional education and care.
About the SEN School
The SEN School is a specialist co-educational provision for pupils aged 5-17 with complex educational needs, communication difficulties, and social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Many of our students have experienced trauma or complex emotional difficulties, requiring a highly personalised approach to learning. With two sites in Stockport, we offer specialist interventions and a nurturing environment that supports every student’s unique needs.
The Role
- Provide strategic leadership, setting high standards for the school’s aims, policies, and direction.
- Lead by example, demonstrating strong values and a clear moral purpose to inspire staff and students.
- Oversee curriculum and teaching standards, ensuring high-quality education for all pupils.
- Monitor student progress, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring the best possible outcomes.
- Develop and lead the senior leadership team, supporting and empowering staff.
- Ensure safeguarding standards are met, acting in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
- Manage Ofsted inspections, ensuring compliance with independent school standards.
- Drive school development, leading regular reviews and overseeing the School Development Plan.
- Oversee staff training and development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Effectively manage school resources, ensuring sustainability and growth.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced professional who is passionate about working with students with SEND. The ideal candidate will have:
- A strong commitment to supporting students with complex needs.
- A minimum of two years’ experience working in a SEND environment, specialist unit, or similar provision.
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS/QTLS) – essential for this role.
- Proven leadership experience, with a track record of improving teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
- Excellent knowledge of safeguarding, curriculum development, and school improvement.
- A collaborative approach, with the ability to inspire and develop a dedicated team.
What the School Offers
The school values our staff and offers a range of benefits to support your career and well-being:
- NEST Enhanced Pension Scheme
- Staff Referral Scheme – Earn up to £500 for referring a friend.
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Pay
- Blue Light Discount Card – Access to exclusive savings.
- Fully Funded Training & Qualifications – Continuous professional development opportunities.
- Competitive Pay Scales – Enhanced based on experience and qualifications.
- Employee Wellbeing App & Discount Scheme – Supporting your mental and physical health.
- Life Assurance – Providing peace of mind for you and your family.
Join Us & Make a Difference
This is an exciting opportunity for a visionary leader to shape the future of the school and positively impact the lives of young people with SEND.
To Apply: Submit your application online or contact us for more information.
Headteacher employer: Simply Education
Contact Detail:
Simply Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in SEND. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in special education.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and needs of students with SEND. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the unique environment of Acorns School.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the school's vision. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or improved educational outcomes for students.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest policies and best practices in safeguarding and school improvement. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you are proactive and ready to take on the responsibilities of a Headteacher.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Headteacher in a SEND environment. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV reflects your leadership experience, particularly in SEND settings. Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for working with students with complex needs. Use it to showcase your vision for the school and how your values align with their mission.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to clearly state your Qualified Teacher Status (QTS/QTLS) and any additional qualifications or training related to SEND. This is crucial for demonstrating your suitability for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Simply Education
✨Show Your Passion for SEND
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your commitment to improving their lives and learning outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles and how you've successfully led teams in a SEND environment. Highlight any initiatives you've implemented that improved teaching standards or student progress, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Research Acorns School thoroughly before the interview. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and any recent developments. This knowledge will allow you to align your answers with their vision and demonstrate that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Prepare for Safeguarding Questions
Given the importance of safeguarding in education, be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and practices. Provide examples of how you've ensured a safe environment for students in your previous roles, as this is crucial for a Headteacher.
