Executive Headteacher

Compass Associates; Colchester; On-site; GBP 76,500 - 93,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus Scheme

Opportunity to shape a new school

Support for professional growth

Job summary

An educational organization based in Colchester is seeking an Executive Headteacher to lead two specialist SEMH schools, including the opening of a new facility. This role involves strategic oversight, team recruitment, and fostering an inclusive educational environment. Candidates should possess leadership experience and an understanding of the SEND/SEMH sector. Competitive salary up to £85,000 with negotiation options.

Qualifications

• Experience overseeing more than one school or provision.
• Deep understanding of the SEND/SEMH sector.
• Proven track record of raising standards and achieving positive outcomes for young people.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the opening of a new SEMH school and recruit the initial team.
• Provide strategic oversight and line management for the established SEMH school in Suffolk.
• Lead with a clear vision to unite both schools under a shared ethos, ensuring consistency and high standards across the region.

Skills

Leadership

Inspiration and motivation

Strategic oversight

Inclusive education practices

Education

NPQH or NPQEH

Job description

Overview

Executive Headteacher – SEMH — Colchester (with regional oversight in Suffolk). Salary up to £85,000 (Negotiable) + Excellent Bonus Scheme.

This role is to lead across two specialist SEMH schools, including overseeing the opening of a brand-new, purpose-built SEMH school for up to 40 children aged 6–18, set to open in early 2026. This is a rare opportunity to shape a school from its beginnings — recruiting your team, embedding strong values and creating an inclusive environment where every child can thrive. You will also provide strategic oversight and line management to an established Ofsted-rated Good SEMH school in Suffolk, which specialises in supporting Key Stage 3 and 4 learners and has a strong, experienced Headteacher and senior leadership team in place.

As Executive Headteacher, you will unite both schools under a shared ethos, ensuring consistency, quality and excellence across the region.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the opening of a new SEMH school and recruit the initial team.
• Provide strategic oversight and line management for the established SEMH school in Suffolk.
• Lead with a clear vision to unite both schools under a shared ethos, ensuring consistency and high standards across the region.
• Embed strong values and an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to maintain Ofsted standards and raise outcomes for pupils (KS3 and KS4).

Qualifications

• Experience overseeing more than one school or provision.
• NPQH or NPQEH.
• Deep understanding of the SEND/SEMH sector.
• Ability to inspire and motivate staff, while embedding the values and ethos of the organisation.
• Proven track record of raising standards and achieving positive outcomes for young people.

What’s on offer

• Salary up to £85,000 (Negotiable depending on current package).
• The opportunity to open and shape a brand-new SEMH school.
• Strategic oversight of an established, well-regarded provision.
• Support from a progressive provider with clear ambitions for growth.

How to apply

If this exciting opportunity sounds like the right fit for you, please contact Jordanna Osborn on 02394211147 or email an updated CV to [e-mail].