Head Teacher

Polaris Inc.; Banbury; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution located in Banbury is seeking a Head Teacher to develop a vision for educational leadership. The role encompasses managing safeguarding policies, adapting the curriculum for diverse pupils, and fostering a nurturing environment, especially for SEN students. The ideal candidate will have Qualified Teacher Status and proven leadership skills. The position offers a full-time term contract with a competitive salary of £50,000 to £60,000 per year based on experience, along with professional development opportunities and other benefits.

Benefits

Professional Development opportunities

Enhanced pension scheme

Free on-site parking

CPD through internal and external providers

Life Insurance x 2

Employee Discount Scheme

Medical Cash Plan

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a vision for the school aligned with community ethos.
• Manage safeguarding and develop a robust safeguarding culture.
• Champion a nurturing approach for emotional well-being and mental health.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication abilities

Experience with SEN students

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

NPQH (not essential)

Job description

Overview

Educational Leadership: Develop and implement a vision that aligns with our ethos of the Polaris Community embracing compassion, inclusion, and personalized learning. 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.

Contract and Salary

Contract: Full‑Time Term Time Only

Salary: £50,000 to £60,000 dependent on experience

Benefits

Professional Development opportunities, Enhanced pension scheme, Free on‑site parking, CPD through internal and external providers, Salary sacrifice schemes, Life Insurance x 2, Employee Discount Scheme & Medical Cash Plan

Opening Date

Projected opening date September 2026

About the School

Located in Banbury, our School offers a capacity of up to 60 pupils and 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.

Our School will form part of the Polaris Community who have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years, alongside our current growing portfolio of schools across the UK. We're incredibly proud that 100% of our Education services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.