Headteacher

Anstey Manor School; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A new specialist day school in the UK seeks a compassionate Headteacher to provide strategic leadership and help shape an inclusive culture. The role involves overseeing the school's opening processes and leading a multi-disciplinary team to support pupils with additional needs. Competitive salary and benefits will be offered, with a focus on fostering pupil wellbeing and success.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension Scheme

Life Assurance Scheme

Opportunities for professional growth

Free lunch

On-site parking

Subsidised gym membership

Electric Vehicle Benefit Programme

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in leading a special educational needs environment.
• Ability to foster an inclusive and nurturing school culture.
• Proven track record in school improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school's strategic direction and oversight during pre-opening.
• Establish a strong team of professionals and support staff.
• Create an innovative curriculum tailored to the needs of pupils.

Skills

Effective SEN leadership

Strong team leadership

Empathy

Communication

Strategic planning

Job description

Overview

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.

Opening in 2026 | Part of the Cavendish Education Family

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 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 3rd October 2025.

Informal discussions and school visits: Available on request.

Formal in-person interviews: Week commencing Monday 27th 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.