Head Teacher

Polaris Community; Accrington; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An inclusive educational organization in the UK is seeking an exceptional Head Teacher. The successful candidate will lead the school, ensuring a nurturing environment for students with special educational needs (SEN). The role involves developing a vision aligned with the school's ethos, acting as the safeguarding lead, and adapting curricula to meet diverse student needs. Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills are essential. This position offers the opportunity to impact the lives of young people positively, fostering both academic and emotional growth.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with Primary/Secondary teaching experience.
• Experience working with SEN students and a deep understanding of their unique requirements.
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate others.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a vision for the school.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding lead.
• Adapt and tailor the curriculum for diverse student needs.
• Champion a nurturing pastoral approach.
• Support and mentor staff for professional growth.
• Build strong relationships with parents and external partners.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal abilities

Understanding of SEN

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

First degree and/or NPQH

Job description

Are you a compassionate and dedicated educational leader? Do you have a passion for supporting students with special educational needs (SEN)? We are seeking an exceptional Head Teacher to lead our nurturing and inclusive school community.

Educational Leadership: Develop and implement a vision that aligns with our ethos of the Polaris Community embracing compassion, inclusion, and personalized learning. Be able to lead the school to consistently meet the requirements of the Independent School Standards and the Education Inspection Framework.

Safeguarding: Acting as the Designated Safeguarding lead and collaborating with safeguarding partners, manage and report all concerns appropriately and put in place policies and procedures to develop a robust safeguarding culture in the school.

Curriculum Enhancement: Adapt and tailor the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of our students, ensuring a stimulating and engaging learning journey preparing pupils for next step.

Pastoral Care and SEN Advocacy: Champion a nurturing pastoral approach, emphasizing emotional well‑being, mental health, and social development. Advocate for the rights and needs of our SEN students, aligned with EHCP objectives, within the wider educational community.

Staff Development: Support and mentor staff, promoting continuous professional growth and fostering a collaborative team spirit.

Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and external partners to create a cohesive support network, ensuring the growth and development of the school.

As the Head Teacher, you will be a forward‑thinking leader, who will play a pivotal role in building a new team and shaping the educational experience for our students.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with Primary/Secondary teaching experience.
• Suitable First degree and/or NPQH (not essential).
• Experience working with SEN students and a deep understanding of their unique requirements.
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate others.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

Located in Burnley, our school has a proposed capacity of up to 48 pupils and offers safe and supportive environments for pupils from 5 to 18 years old with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that academic progress is complemented by emotional well‑being and personal growth.

Burnley School will form part of the Polaris Community alongside our current growing portfolio of schools across the UK, all rated by Ofsted as Good or Outstanding. The Polaris Community has been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years.