At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape a brand-new all-through SEND school for children with complex needs.
- Company: Join a respected SEN multi-academy trust dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, expert support, and a strong peer network.
- Other info: Opportunity for creativity and collaboration in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with severe learning difficulties.
- Qualifications: Experienced senior leader with SEND expertise and QTS/QTLS qualification.
The predicted salary is between 117500 - 136000 £ per year.
Integrity Education Solutions are supporting a SEN multi academy trust that provides specialist education and support for children and young people with complex needs across a range of settings, from early intervention through to post‐16 provision. They are seeking to appoint an experienced Principal from January 2027 for a rare and career‐defining opportunity to open and lead a brand‐new, all‐through SEND school for pupils with severe learning difficulties (SLD), based in East London. This is a unique chance to shape vision, culture, curriculum and provision from the ground up, while benefiting from the support, expertise and infrastructure of a highly respected specialist trust.
The new school will sit at the heart of an established community, with excellent transport links via the Elizabeth Line. The school reflects a strong commitment to partnership working with families, professionals and the wider community to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and young people with complex needs.
The Role
The Principal will be accountable to the CEO and Trust Board for the successful establishment and leadership of the new school. This includes shaping its ethos, leading its phased growth and ensuring high‐quality education and care from day one. In the initial stages, the appointed candidate will work closely with the CEO, Quality of Education Lead and experienced Principals across the Trust, benefiting from a structured induction, mentoring and collaboration programme ahead of the school opening. This role offers a unique blend of autonomy and creativity, alongside the stability and support of an established SEND trust.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & School Development
- Develop and embed a shared vision and ethos aligned with Trust values
- Lead the planning, opening and growth of a new SEND provision
- Work in partnership with Trust leaders and governors to deliver strategic priorities
- Teaching, Learning & Curriculum
- Design and implement an innovative, personalised SEND curriculum
- Ensure excellence in teaching, assessment and pupil progress
- Promote best practice in SEND pedagogy, communication and independence
- Leadership of People & Culture
- Build and develop a high‐performing, values‐driven staff team
- Foster a positive, inclusive and ambitious school culture
- Lead performance management, coaching and professional development
- Safeguarding & Community Engagement
- Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and pupil welfare
- Build strong partnerships with families and external agencies
- Position the school as a central part of the local community
- Operational Leadership
- Work with central teams on finance, HR and operations
- Establish effective systems and processes for sustainable school operation
- Maximise the impact of integrated therapy and specialist services
The Ideal Candidate
- Be an experienced senior leader with significant SEND expertise (Preferably SLD Complex needs)
- QTS QTLS qualified
- Demonstrate a strong track record of improving outcomes and developing teams
- Be passionate about inclusive education and ambitious for all learners
- Possess strong strategic, communication and leadership skills
- Thrive on collaboration with families, professionals and communities
- Be motivated by the opportunity to lead a school from its inception
Why Join?
- As Principal, you will benefit from:
- Expert central support across finance, HR and operations
- Access to embedded specialist therapy services
- A strong peer network of SEND leaders
- A culture of collaboration and professional growth
- The security of an established Trust alongside the freedom to lead
Salary: £117,500 - £136,000 FTE (Dependent on experience)
Closing date for CV applications: Friday 29th May 2026
Interviews to be held on the 16th and 17th June 2026. Visits and initial discussions with the CEO of the MAT also advised and can be arranged.
Integrity Education Solutions is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, employment history scrutiny, references and online searches in line with safer recruitment practices.
Principal of All-Through SEND School. Job in London LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Integrity Education Solutions is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a brand-new all-through SEND school in East London. With a strong commitment to inclusive education, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional growth and community engagement, while providing robust support from an established trust. As Principal, you will enjoy the autonomy to shape the school's vision and curriculum, backed by expert resources and a network of SEND leaders dedicated to achieving outstanding outcomes for children with complex needs.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal of All-Through SEND School. Job in London LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. They might have insider info on opportunities or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in community events related to SEND. This not only shows your commitment but also helps you meet potential colleagues and stakeholders who can support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the trust's values and current initiatives. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with theirs, making it clear you’re the perfect fit for their new school.
✨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, we love seeing passionate candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal of All-Through SEND School. Job in London LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for SEND:When writing your application, let your passion for special educational needs shine through. We want to see how committed you are to making a difference in the lives of children with complex needs. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your dedication!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. We’re looking for someone who aligns with our vision and values, so highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. It’s all about showing us why you’re the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. Remember, clarity is key to making a great impression!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our trust and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), especially severe learning difficulties (SLD). Brush up on current best practices, innovative teaching methods, and how to create an inclusive environment. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with the values of the trust. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or initiatives, particularly in SEND settings. Highlight your ability to foster a positive school culture and how you plan to build a high-performing staff team.
✨Engage with the Community
Since the new school will be at the heart of the community, come prepared with ideas on how to engage families and local agencies. Discuss your experience in building partnerships and how you envision positioning the school as a central part of the community. This shows you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving outstanding outcomes.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the trust’s vision, support structures, and expectations for the new school. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Questions about professional development opportunities and community engagement strategies can be particularly impactful.
