Headteacher

School & College; Alton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A new specialist education institution in Alton is seeking a passionate Headteacher to lead its establishment and shape its vision from inception. You will provide strategic direction, recruit staff, and create an inclusive culture focused on pupil well-being. The role requires proven leadership in SEN and promises a competitive salary, professional growth opportunities, and benefits. An exciting chance to lead a pioneering educational project with a dedicated support network.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension Scheme

Life Assurance Scheme

Free lunch

On-site parking

Subsidised gym membership

Electric Vehicle Benefit Programme

Qualifications

• Proven track record in school leadership and management.
• Experience with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).
• Ability to create safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the new school.
• Recruit and oversee staff recruitment and pupil admissions.
• Design an innovative curriculum in line with the school's ethos.

Skills

Effective SEN leadership

School improvement

Relationship-building with pupils and families

Team leadership

Strategic planning

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Job description

Overview

An Exceptional Leadership Opportunity in Specialist Education

Headteacher – Anstey Manor School, Alton

Opening in 2026 | Part of the Cavendish Education Family

Anstey Manor School is a brand-new specialist day school in Alton, Hampshire, due to open in 2026 for pupils aged 7–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), and associated additional needs. We are seeking an ambitious, visionary, and compassionate Headteacher to lead the school through its pre-opening phase and into its inaugural years. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to help shape and open a school from the ground up—building a culture rooted in empathy, kindness, with high expectations and aspirational outcomes. Anstey Manor will join the Cavendish Education family of schools, a leading group of specialist and independent schools across the UK committed to innovative, inclusive, and pupil-centred education.

The Role

As the founding Headteacher, you will provide the strategic direction and the inspirational leadership necessary to create a thriving, inclusive school community. From preparing for regulatory approval, recruitment of the staff team, close oversight of pupil admissions, and establishing an innovative curriculum, you will help to shape the school’s values and ethos, and be instrumental in realising the school’s vision from day one.

You will be supported by the wider Cavendish Education team and will work closely with the governing body to ensure that every decision made reflects our commitment to excellent outcomes, safeguarding, and wellbeing for all pupils and staff. We are looking for a Headteacher who will:

• Lead with integrity, empathy, and confidence, placing pupil wellbeing and success at the heart of every decision.
• Establish a safe, inclusive and nurturing learning environment where pupils feel understood, valued and supported to reach their full potential.
• Demonstrate a proven track record of effective SEN leadership and school improvement.
• Build and lead a strong, multi-disciplinary team of teachers, therapists and support staff.
• Communicate with warmth and clarity, developing strong relationships with pupils, families, colleagues, and professionals.
• Promote a school culture that celebrates individuality, resilience, kindness and responsibility.
• Take a strategic and operational lead in preparing the school for opening, including staff recruitment, pupil admissions, compliance, curriculum design, and cultural foundations.
• Champion the values of Confidence, Competence, Creativity and Character in every aspect of school life.

Why Lead at Anstey Manor?

Joining Anstey Manor School at this pivotal stage means more than a new role—it’s a chance to shape the culture, ethos, and impact of a brand-new school. You will benefit from:

• A highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership responsibilities.
• Membership of a Pension Scheme and Life Assurance Scheme.
• Strong support from Cavendish Education’s senior leaders and peer network.
• Opportunities for professional growth and innovation in a dynamic, highly regarded educational group.
• Free lunch, on-site parking, and subsidised gym membership.
• Electric Vehicle Benefit Programme
• The chance to build a team and legacy within a trusted, values-led education group.

Application Process

To express interest in this exceptional opportunity, please visit our website www.Cavendisheducation.com or contact [e-mail] to request an application pack.

• Closing date for applications: Friday 3 October 2025
• Informal discussions and school visits: Available on request.
• Formal in person interviews: Week commencing Monday 20 October 2025
• Start date: April 2026 or sooner by mutual agreement

Anstey Manor School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to the receipt of a completed application form, satisfactory references, and an Enhanced DBS Disclosure.