Headteacher

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’d love to hear from you! Send your CV or contact us at (phone number removed) for more details.