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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a school dedicated to supporting pupils with complex needs.
- Company: Fitzwaryn School, part of Propeller Academy Trust, known for its outstanding provision.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, wellbeing days, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture focused on inclusion and holistic pupil development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with diverse learning needs.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and proven senior leadership experience in SEND.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.
Your Role
Through learning to learn, pupils will access society. Due to the expansion of Fitzwaryn into a satellite site on the site of St John's Academy in Grove in September 2026, Propeller Academy Trust is looking to extend their leadership capacity at Fitzwaryn to retain strategic oversight, quality assurance and consistency of practice across all sites, including curriculum, therapeutic approaches and behaviour frameworks. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and motivated Head of School to join our Senior Leadership Team in this key strategic post, working in close partnership with the Executive Headteacher/Trust Leadership to deliver the school's vision, contribute to strategic planning, and uphold a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment for pupils with diverse and complex needs. Located in the heart of Wantage, Fitzwaryn School is highly regarded as an outstanding provision for educating children and young people aged 3-19 with severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound & multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and autism (ASD). We are committed to providing the very best for our pupils and we know that strong leadership behind the scenes is essential to making that happen.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Full induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEN training
- Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
- Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
- Teachers' Pension Scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
- A strong, therapeutic and supportive school culture
About the Role
- Lead whole-school strategy for SEND, inclusion and personal development in line with trust vision
- Ensure outstanding, personalised and therapeutic provision for pupils with complex SEND
- Drive high-quality teaching, curriculum design, assessment and communication approaches (AAC/Makaton/PECS)
- Embed a strong safeguarding, wellbeing and trauma-informed behaviour culture (DDSL role)
- Line-manage and develop senior leaders, teachers and support staff; lead recruitment and CPD
- Track and improve pupil academic, social, emotional and holistic outcomes
- Work closely with families, external agencies and local partners to maximise pupil progress
- Oversee day-to-day operations, staffing, transitions and site safety
- Support budget planning, resource deployment and statutory compliance
What We're Looking For
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with proven senior leadership experience in a SEND or inclusive school
- Strong track record of improving outcomes for pupils with SEND
- Clear understanding of SEND frameworks, EHCP processes, safeguarding, behaviour and attendance guidance
- Experience leading safeguarding practice and effective multi-agency working
- Expertise in therapeutic approaches, behaviour support and communication systems
- Ability to inspire, motivate and develop staff teams
- Strong operational, organisational and problem-solving skills
- Confident working in partnership with parents/carers, communities and external agencies
- NPQH (or equivalent) or willingness to undertake further leadership training
- Compassionate, resilient, child-centred leader with high expectations and a commitment to inclusion
How to Apply
To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged. To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the Headteacher through the school office.
Qualifications
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – essential
- NPQH (or equivalent) or willingness to undertake further leadership training – essential
- Extensive SEND training – desirable
Safeguarding Information
The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information. We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.
Head of School in Wantage employer: The Cherwell School
Contact Detail:
The Cherwell School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School in Wantage
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Show how your vision aligns with theirs, especially regarding inclusion and therapeutic approaches. We want to see that passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job alerts; be proactive! Visit our website regularly and apply directly through us. It shows initiative and can give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around leadership and SEND strategies. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School in Wantage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the role of Head of School. Highlight your experience in SEND and leadership, and show how your values align with our mission at Fitzwaryn.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've improved outcomes for pupils with SEND. We want to see your impact and what you can bring to our team!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for a compassionate and resilient leader, so don’t hesitate to share your passion for education and inclusion in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cherwell School
✨Know Your SEND Frameworks
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND frameworks and the EHCP processes. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the complexities of the role and can lead effectively in a SEND environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership experiences, especially in developing staff and improving pupil outcomes. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've inspired and motivated teams in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Head of School position.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Fitzwaryn School's vision and values. Be ready to discuss how your own educational philosophy aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their strategic planning and nurturing environment.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about how you would work with families, external agencies, and local partners. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past, as this role requires strong community engagement to maximise pupil progress.