Headteacher

The Governors are seeking to appoint an exceptional Headteacher with the vision, drive, creativity, and leadership expertise to lead our highly successful specialist school into its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will have a strong track record of teaching and leadership within a specialist SEND setting and will be committed to ensuring that every pupil achieves their full potential.

Mandeville School is a thriving and highly regarded specialist school which has recently expanded to include a nearby satellite provision. Central to our success is a nurturing, inclusive culture and a deep understanding of the individual needs of our pupils. Through a relational and child-centred approach, we create an environment in which pupils feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Governors are seeking an inspirational leader who can build upon our established strengths, inspire confidence across the school community, and maintain the highest expectations for pupil achievement, personal development, and wellbeing. The successful candidate will set aspirational standards and champion ambitious outcomes for all.

They will be a visible, approachable, and highly effective leader who leads by example, fosters a strong sense of teamwork, and works collaboratively with staff, families, governors, and external partners to provide a safe, nurturing, and aspirational learning environment.

• Proven experience of successful leadership within specialist SEND educational settings.
• A strong commitment to promoting excellence, high expectations, and aspirational outcomes in teaching and learning.
• Comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy, and practice, with the ability to ensure the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection are embedded throughout the school.
• The ability to inspire, motivate, and lead multidisciplinary teams, promoting a culture of collaboration, professional development, and continuous improvement.
• A clear understanding of the importance of partnership working with families, governors, local authorities, neighbouring schools, and external agencies.
• A thorough understanding of the diverse and complex needs of pupils with SEND and the ability to ensure that teaching, learning, and provision are tailored to meet individual needs.
• Sound financial and resource management skills relevant to a local authority-maintained specialist school.

Further information about the role and the school can be found the school's website.

Mandeville School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and all relevant pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Applicants must be able to establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and boundaries with children and young people. They should demonstrate resilience, emotional intelligence, and an understanding of the challenges associated with supporting children with complex needs.

As a diverse and inclusive school community, we believe that diversity enriches learning, strengthens creativity, and fosters innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity and to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Visits to the school are welcome:
To arrange a visit please contact Tanya Blandford on  or email t.blandf

Start date: Monday 22nd Feb 2027

Closing date: Sunday 4th October 2026

Shortlisting date: Tuesday 6th October 2026

Interviews: Monday 19th October 2026 - Wednesday 21st October 2026