Headteacher

Education Experts; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational recruitment firm is seeking an experienced SEND specialist Headteacher for a new school in Woodbridge, Suffolk. This permanent role focuses on providing strategic leadership and implementing SEMH-focused educational programs. Ideal candidates must have substantial experience with SEND pupils and a relevant leadership qualification. Competitive salary of £71,070 plus OTE of £18,000. Starting January 2026 or April 2026.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience working with pupils with SEND within an educational setting.
• Experience as a Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher is desirable.
• Exceptional references and the ability to provide required documents.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership and strategic direction for the new provision.
• Lead development and implementation of SEMH-focused educational programs.
• Engage with families and external partners for high-quality provision.

Skills

Experience working with SEND pupils

Leadership experience

Therapeutic educational practices

Education

UK-based teaching and/or leadership qualification

Job description

Overview

Are you an education expert? We are currently seeking an experienced SEND specialist Headteacher for a brand-new alternative provision school based in Woodbridge, Suffolk (IP12 2EA). This permanent senior leadership role is available to start in January 2026 or April 2026 (later start date negotiable for the right candidate).

Role and Setting

This site within the group will cater to pupils aged 7-17 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The school will have capacity for up to 36 students and is opening in April 2026. The ideal candidate would be available from January 2026 to assist with opening needs.

The national trust behind this school focuses on supporting children who have lived through trauma and adverse childhood experiences, developing self-belief to become effective learners. They work with senior leaders who adopt a therapeutic style and ethos.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership and strategic direction for the new provision.
• Lead the development and implementation of SEMH-focused educational programs and therapeutic practices.
• Collaborate with safeguarding, safeguarding checks, and safer recruitment processes.
• Support the opening phase and establish governance, policies, and staffing structures.
• Engage with families and external partners to ensure high-quality provision and outcomes for pupils.

Qualifications and Experience

• A relevant UK-based teaching and/or leadership qualification.
• Substantial experience working with pupils with SEND within an educational setting.
• Experience as a Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher seeking first headship is desirable.
• Exceptional references and the ability to provide safer recruitment documents (including right to work proof and Enhanced DBS).

Safeguarding and Recruitment

• All applicants are subject to online searching checks as part of safer recruitment.

Compensation and Start Date

• Salary: Annual salary £71,070 plus OTE of up to £18,000.
• Proposed start date: January 2026 or April 2026.

Application Process

Date posted: 23.09.25 | Application closing date: 21.10.25

If you are a SEND specialist senior leader and are interested in registering for this role or upcoming vacancies, please contact the Education Experts office to submit a CV or for initial enquiries.