Headteacher - SEN School

Job Description:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and visionary Headteacher to lead the opening of a brand-new specialist school in the East Midlands.

This new provision, opening in late 2026, will support children and young people aged 5-19 with a range of additional needs including Autism (ASD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH), and Communication & Interaction needs.

With capacity for up to 120 pupils across multiple sites, the school aims to provide a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment where every learner can thrive.

As Headteacher, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the school from its earliest stages. Working closely with central teams and senior leaders, you will:

• Lead the strategic development of the school, including vision, ethos, and culture
• Oversee the design and implementation of a bespoke curriculum
• Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing staff team
• Ensure outstanding educational and operational performance
• Take responsibility for budget management and resource planning
• Embed strong safeguarding practices and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks

We are seeking an inspirational and experienced leader who can demonstrate:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with relevant leadership experience
• Experience working within a senior leadership role in a SEND setting
• A strong understanding of Ofsted frameworks and safeguarding legislation
• Proven experience in school improvement and quality assurance
• Excellent team leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
• A commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for students with additional needs
• A recognised Headship qualification (e.g. NPQH), or willingness to work towards this, is desirable.

This is a unique opportunity to:

• Lead a school from concept to reality
• Make a lasting impact on the lives of young people with SEND
• Build and shape a values-driven educational environment
• Join a growing and forward-thinking organisation

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR SPENCER CLARKE GROUP
All applications are subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure, professional reference checks, Overseas Police Clearances (if applicable) in line with our stringent safeguarding policy

• Your CV must cover the last 10 years of employment history where possible and all employment breaks must be explained
• You must have legal right to work in the UK
• You must be willing to attend a registration interview

All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.

Spencer Clarke Group work with a variety of schools covering a wide geographical area. We deal with teaching placements at Primary, Secondary, Special Education needs and college level as well as support staff positions also within these.