Head of School

Head of School Salary: £77,676 - £85,547 per annum (L16-L20) Permanent | Full Time | 40 Hours Per Week Cambridgeshire Are you an experienced senior leader with a passion for transforming outcomes for children and young people with complex special educational needs? We are seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead a highly specialist independent school supporting children and young people aged 6-19 with a range of complex learning difficulties, autism, profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), physical disabilities and associated medical needs.

This is a rare opportunity for an ambitious and inspirational leader to make a lasting impact within a well-established specialist education setting. Working closely with the Principal and wider leadership team, you will play a key role in driving school improvement, maintaining outstanding standards of safeguarding and education, and ensuring every pupil has the opportunity to thrive.

The Role Similar in scope to a Headteacher position, the Head of School is responsible for the day-to-day operational and educational leadership of the school. You will oversee educational performance, support strategic development, manage resources effectively and lead a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for pupils with complex needs. You'll be passionate about inclusive education, able to inspire staff, and committed to creating a culture where pupils are supported to achieve their fullest potential.

Key Responsibilities Lead the strategic and operational direction of the school alongside the Principal and Governing Body. Drive continuous school improvement and ensure high standards across teaching, learning and pupil outcomes. Oversee safeguarding processes and ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities. Monitor and evaluate educational quality through lesson observations, performance management and quality assurance activities. Manage staffing, budgets and resources effectively. Foster strong relationships with families, external professionals and wider stakeholders.

Promote a positive, inclusive and aspirational culture throughout the school. About You We are looking for a proven educational leader who can demonstrate:
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Significant senior leadership experience within a specialist SEND setting. Experience supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). Strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks, safeguarding legislation and independent school standards.

Experience of quality assurance processes including lesson observations and performance management. Excellent people leadership and team development skills. Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities. A Headteacher qualification (such as NPQH) or willingness to work towards one would be advantageous. Why Apply? Opportunity to lead a well-established specialist school. Make a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people with complex needs.

Join a supportive and collaborative senior leadership team. Competitive leadership salary package. Extensive professional development and career progression opportunities.