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An established education provider is seeking a passionate Headteacher to lead the launch of a new specialist school for pupils with complex learning disabilities. This exciting role offers the opportunity to build a nurturing and structured learning environment from the ground up, ensuring high-quality education and holistic support. With small class sizes and high staff ratios, you will have the autonomy to shape the curriculum and foster an inclusive school culture. If you are an experienced SEN leader ready to make a significant impact, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
Location: Halifax
School Type: Specialist SEN Independent School for Complex Learning Disabilities (LD)
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Are you an experienced SEN leader looking for an opportunity to shape a brand-new specialist school? We are seeking a passionate and experienced Headteacher to lead the launch and development of a new SEN independent school in Halifax. This is a blank canvas for an ambitious leader who wants to create an outstanding, nurturing, and structured learning environment for pupils with complex learning disabilities (LD).
Maximum of 20 pupils, with a staggered intake over 1-2 years to ensure smooth transitions.
Age range: 8-17 years old (varied due to complex SEN needs).
Small class sizes & high staff ratios: Typically 3 staff (including Headteacher) per 6 students, with additional support based on EHCP requirements.
As Headteacher, you will be responsible for leading, shaping, and managing the school, ensuring it provides an outstanding education and holistic support for pupils with complex LD needs. This is a unique opportunity to build a school from the ground up, with full autonomy over curriculum development, staffing, and strategic planning.
Lead the setup and establishment of the new school, ensuring a high-quality SEN learning environment.
Develop and implement a specialist curriculum tailored to the needs of pupils with complex LD.
Recruit, train, and manage a specialist SEN teaching team.
Ensure a gradual, well-supported transition of pupils into the school.
Teach approximately 50% of the time initially, supporting learning in small, highly supported class groups.
Foster a positive, engaging, and inclusive school culture.
Ensure high-quality teaching, learning, and individualised support for all pupils.
Oversee placements, referrals, admissions, and pupil EHCP reviews.
Manage school budgets and resources efficiently.
Ensure compliance with Ofsted & independent school regulations.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) essential
Strong SEN experience, particularly with complex learning disabilities
Leadership experience in an SEN or specialist education setting
Experience in school placements, referrals, EHCPs, and budget management
A passion for building and leading an exceptional school environment
Exciting Leadership Role: Build a brand-new SEN school from the ground up
High-Quality SEN Provision: Small class sizes & higher staff-to-pupil ratios
Career Growth: Lead a school within a highly supportive and established education provider
Autonomy & Creativity: A true blank canvas to create a specialist education setting
If you're ready to step into a pioneering leadership role and create a nurturing, high-quality SEN school, we would love to hear from you! Send your CV or contact us at (phone number removed) for more details.