Head of College

Kisimul Group Ltd.; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Kisimul Group Ltd. is seeking a Head of College for Calman College near Peterborough. This role involves leading a specialist college for learners with autism and complex needs, focusing on growth, educational outcomes, and fostering a positive learning environment. The position requires strong leadership skills, in-depth knowledge of SEND frameworks, and a commitment to student development.

Benefits

50 days of annual leave

Employee health and well-being support

Pension scheme

Ongoing CPD and training

Qualifications

• Demonstrated excellent leadership and organizational skills.
• Extensive knowledge of SEND pedagogy and frameworks.
• Experience or aspiration for senior leadership in Post 16 SEND.

Responsibilities

• Lead the college and its growth plans while maintaining strong external relationships.
• Support the development of learners with complex needs.
• Manage and lead the onsite therapy team.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Knowledge of SEND Pedagogy

Understanding of SEND Code of Practice

Change Management

Safeguarding Knowledge

Communication Skills

Education

Experience in Senior Leadership

Job description

About The Role

Head of College

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of College to join our established team at Calman College, located on the outskirts of Thorney, near Peterborough.

About the Job:

Calman College is a Specialist Post 16-25 college providing education for learners who are autistic and have complex learning needs.

The college is part of the Kisimul Group, a national provider of education and care for neurodivergent children and adults. It values ‘Think Forward, Be Yourself, and Grow Together’. The site covers over 20 acres, featuring first-class learning spaces, sensory rooms, and vocational facilities within extensive grounds.

The curriculum focuses on Preparation for Adulthood, including Functional Skills, Independent Living, and Creativity. There is a strong emphasis on enterprise, environmental, and employment-based learning. The college also has animal husbandry and horticulture facilities that support vocational and therapeutic outcomes. Given the complex needs of learners, creativity, resilience, and clarity on individual outcomes are essential.

An onsite therapy team supports communication, sensory, and emotional regulation, along with staff training and mentoring. The college has built a positive reputation, reflected in recent regulatory visits, with plans for further growth, including satellite provisions linked to the group's adult care services. The new Head of College will need to lead this growth, overcome barriers to learning, and maintain strong external relationships.

About You

We seek a candidate who demonstrates:

• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills with colleagues, stakeholders, and learners.
• Extensive knowledge of SEND pedagogy.
• A clear understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and Ofsted frameworks.
• Experience or aspiration for senior leadership, ideally within Post 16 SEND.
• Alignment of personal values with leadership passion.
• A commitment to enabling learners to reach their full potential.
• High expectations of accountability and motivation skills.
• Experience in leading change and impacting organizational culture.
• Understanding of safeguarding roles for vulnerable young people.
• Ability to analyze, prioritize, and communicate information effectively.

Why join Kisimul

We value your health and development, offering:

• A competitive salary of approximately £60,000-£65,000, with 50 days of annual leave.
• Employee health and well-being support.
• Pension scheme.
• A competency framework outlining expectations and progression routes.
• Ongoing CPD and training in autism, trauma-informed practice, communication, and support for National Professional Qualifications in Education.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will undergo social media checks, and successful candidates will be subject to a fully enhanced DBS.