Headteacher

Jobster
Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Brand‑New Specialist School
Opening Spring 2026, Salary:
Up to £85,000

We are recruiting an experienced and inspirational Headteacher to lead the launch of a brand‑new specialist day school for pupils aged 5–16 with a range of diverse SEND needs. This is a rare opportunity to take on full strategic and operational leadership of a new school from its pre‑opening phase through to opening and beyond. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the school’s vision, culture, curriculum, and staffing ahead of opening after Easter 2026.

The school will form part of a well‑established and highly regarded group of specialist education settings, offering strong central support, proven systems, and an experienced senior leadership network. While you will have the autonomy to shape the school, you will not be doing so alone – operational, governance, and educational support will be in place to allow you to focus on delivering outstanding provision.

This role will suit an ambitious and values‑driven leader who is motivated by building something exceptional and making a meaningful difference to pupils, families, and staff.

• Provide strategic leadership for the pre‑opening and launch of the school
• Establish a strong, inclusive school culture aligned with the group’s values
• Lead on curriculum development, quality assurance, and school improvement
• Ensure full compliance with Independent School Standards
• Recruit, develop, and inspire a high‑performing multidisciplinary team
• Build positive relationships with parents, professionals, and external stakeholders

• Proven experience as a Headteacher or senior leader within a SEND or specialist education setting
• Strong understanding of school improvement, curriculum design, and quality assurance
• In‑depth knowledge of Independent School Standards
• A people‑centred leadership style with the ability to motivate and develop others
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• Opportunity to lead and shape a school from day one
• Competitive salary of up to £85,000
• Strong operational and leadership support from an established group
• A long‑term leadership role with real impact and legacy

For a confidential discussion and further information, please contact Kate at Soka Partners.