Head Of School (SEMH)

Think Education Partners Limited; Stockport; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational organization is seeking an inspirational Headteacher to lead the opening of a new SEMH school in Cheshire, set to open in 2026. The ideal candidate will shape the school's culture, recruit and manage a high-quality team, and ensure an engaging curriculum for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. This role offers a competitive salary of up to £70,000 along with an excellent bonus scheme, presenting a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in specialist education.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent bonus scheme

Supportive organizational culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading or contributing within a SEND/SEMH setting.
• Ability to create a strong ethos and values-driven culture.
• Passion for achieving outstanding outcomes for children with SEMH needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the launch and development of the new SEMH provision.
• Recruit and manage a skilled staff team.
• Deliver an inclusive and engaging curriculum tailored to SEMH learners.
• Ensure high standards of safeguarding and compliance.
• Build relationships with parents, local authorities, and agencies.

Skills

Leadership in SEND/SEMH setting

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Ethos and values-driven culture

Job description

Head of School - SEMH - Greater Manchester

We are proud to be recruiting for an inspirational Headteacher to lead the opening of a brand‑new specialist SEMH school in Cheshire, due to open beginning of 2026.

This purpose‑built school will provide high‑quality education for up to 25 students, supporting children aged 5‑13 years (Key Stages 1‑3) with social, emotional and mental health needs. As the founding Headteacher, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the school’s culture, recruit and lead your team, and embed a nurturing, ambitious environment where children can thrive.

The role will include:

• Leading the launch and ongoing development of a brand‑new SEMH provision.
• Recruiting, managing and inspiring a skilled and dedicated staff team.
• Creating and delivering an inclusive, engaging and aspirational curriculum tailored to the needs of SEMH learners.
• Ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding, quality and compliance in line with Ofsted.
• Building positive relationships with parents, carers, local authorities and external agencies.

We are looking for a Headteacher who:

• Has proven experience in leading or significantly contributing to leadership within a SEND/SEMH setting.
• Can create and sustain a strong ethos and values‑driven culture.
• Is passionate about achieving outstanding outcomes for children with SEMH needs.
• Possesses exceptional leadership, communication and organisational skills.
• Can thrive in the challenge of establishing a brand‑new school.

What's on offer:

• A competitive salary of up to £70,000 and an excellent bonus scheme.
• The chance to shape and grow a brand‑new school from the very beginning.
• A supportive and ambitious organisation committed to specialist education.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a passionate leader to make a real and lasting impact in specialist education.