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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).

About the School:

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.

The Role:

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.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Development

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.

Teaching & Learning

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.

School Operations & Management

Oversee placements, referrals, admissions, and pupil EHCP reviews.

Manage school budgets and resources efficiently.

Ensure compliance with Ofsted & independent school regulations.

Who We're Looking For:

✔ 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

Why Join?

✅ 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

How to Apply:

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