Key HighlightsRare equity stake - highly unusual at this levelAutonomy to leadSmall school settings - meaningful impact on every pupilStrong wellbeing culture with protected breaksExceptional staff retention (leaders with 10+ years’ service)Opportunity to join a growing organisation at the right timeThis is a senior, hands-on leadership role within a specialist education setting supporting pupils with ACEs, complex SEMH needs, and associated SEND.As Head of School, you will be the most senior on-site leader, responsible for the day-to-day running of your school and the quality of provision across education, care, and safeguarding. You will lead from the front - visible in classrooms, present with your team, and fully engaged in the life of the school.The organisation operates a relationships-first approach, moving away from traditional behaviour management and focusing on building consistent, positive relationships that enable pupils to thrive.This is a high-accountability role. You will be expected to deliver against placement targets, maintain compliance with independent school standards, and ensure consistently high-quality outcomes for pupils.In return, you will be trusted to lead - with autonomy and support from senior leadership. You will have regular contract with the Executive Head, be part of a collaborative leadership team, and play a key role in shaping a provision that is continuing to grow.It is a demanding position, but one where the impact is clear and the reward - both professionally and personally - is significant.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and embed a relationships-first culture across the school, modelling professionalism and practiceTake ownership of day-to-day leadership, operational management, and site performance, ensuring compliance with Independent School Standards (ISS)Ensure consistently high standards across education, therapy, care, safeguarding, and enrichment/SMSC provisionDeliver on placement targets and manage pupil admissions, transitions, and leavers effectivelyAct as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), maintaining a strong safeguarding cultureLead, support, and hold to account teaching and support staff, including inductions, mentoring (ECTs), and performance managementOversee timetabling and staff deployment, ensuring effective coverage during structured and unstructured timesMonitor and evaluate teaching quality, planning, and pupil outcomes, using data to drive improvementMaintain a calm, safe, organised, and welcoming school environmentBuild and maintain strong relationships with pupils, families, staff, and external professionalsProactively manage conflicts, concerns, and complaints, resolving issues efficientlyLead briefings, meetings, and training sessions across the sitePromote staff wellbeing while maintaining accountability and high standardsContribute to whole-school improvement and organisational growth, supporting wider leadership initiativesEnsure adherence to all policies and procedures, including safeguarding and data protectionContribute to wider school improvement and organisational growthAbout YouQualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a relevant degreeExperience working with SEMH and/or SEND pupilsProven leadership experience, ideally within a challenging or specialist settingStrong understanding of safeguarding, SEND frameworks, and independent school standardsAbility to lead teams with clarity, consistency, and accountabilityCreative and imaginative thinker; solution focused and proactiveSense of humour, realistic and positiveExcellent organisational and communication skillsResilient, solution-focused, and able to perform under pressureCommitted to building positive relationships with pupils, families, and staffComfortable balancing high expectations with a supportive leadership styleMotivated to be part of a growing organisation and contribute to its developmentThis is a rare opportunity to take on a meaningful leadership role, with the scope to shape your school and contribute to a growing organisation that genuinely values both its pupils and its staff.Applications are encouraged early - roles at this level, with this long-term opportunity, do not stay open for long.To apply, or for more information and an informal confidential discussion please contact Madeleine Crosley at 0161 507 5060 or mcrosley@compassltd.co.ukCompass Associates Ltd is acting as a Recruitment Consultancy for this permanent vacancy. We offer a £500 voucher for successful referrals following completion of probation. #J-18808-Ljbffr