Headteacher

Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing); Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Mandeville School seeks an exceptional Headteacher to lead our specialist SEND school through its next phase of development. The successful candidate will drive high expectations, equity, and excellence for every pupil and will exemplify inclusive, relational leadership.

The role requires evidence of successful SEND leadership, safeguarding expertise, and the ability to work with families, local authorities, and partners to secure improved outcomes and wellbeing for all learners.

Qualifications

• Proven experience of successful leadership within specialist SEND educational settings.
• Commitment to promoting excellence, high expectations, and aspirational outcomes in teaching and learning.
• Comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy, and practice.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Understanding of partnership working with families, governors, local authorities and external agencies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school and drive development in line with the senior leadership team.
• Inspire confidence across the school community and maintain high aspirations for pupil achievement.
• Ensure safeguarding and child protection standards are embedded across the school.
• Foster collaboration with staff, families, governors and external partners to create a nurturing environment.

Skills

Leadership

SEND experience

Strategic planning

Communication

Teamwork

Education

QTS

Leadership qualification

Job description

The Governors are seeking to appoint an exceptional Headteacher with the vision, drive, creativity, and leadership expertise to lead our highly successful specialist school into its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will have a strong track record of teaching and leadership within a specialist SEND setting and will be committed to ensuring that every pupil achieves their full potential.

Mandeville School is a thriving and highly regarded specialist school which has recently expanded to include a nearby satellite provision. Central to our success is a nurturing, inclusive culture and a deep understanding of the individual needs of our pupils. Through a relational and child-centred approach, we create an environment in which pupils feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Governors are seeking an inspirational leader who can build upon our established strengths, inspire confidence across the school community, and maintain the highest expectations for pupil achievement, personal development, and wellbeing. The successful candidate will set aspirational standards and champion ambitious outcomes for all.

They will be a visible, approachable, and highly effective leader who leads by example, fosters a strong sense of teamwork, and works collaboratively with staff, families, governors, and external partners to provide a safe, nurturing, and aspirational learning environment.

We are looking for an outstanding practitioner and leader who has:

• Proven experience of successful leadership within specialist SEND educational settings.
• A strong commitment to promoting excellence, high expectations, and aspirational outcomes in teaching and learning.
• Comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy, and practice, with the ability to ensure the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection are embedded throughout the school.
• The ability to inspire, motivate, and lead multidisciplinary teams, promoting a culture of collaboration, professional development, and continuous improvement.
• A clear understanding of the importance of partnership working with families, governors, local authorities, neighbouring schools, and external agencies.
• A thorough understanding of the diverse and complex needs of pupils with SEND and the ability to ensure that teaching, learning, and provision are tailored to meet individual needs.
• Sound financial and resource management skills relevant to a local authority-maintained specialist school.

Further information about the role and the school can be found the school's website.

Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities

Mandeville School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and all relevant pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Applicants must be able to establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and boundaries with children and young people. They should demonstrate resilience, emotional intelligence, and an understanding of the challenges associated with supporting children with complex needs.

As a diverse and inclusive school community, we believe that diversity enriches learning, strengthens creativity, and fosters innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity and to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Visits to the school are welcome: To arrange a visit please contact Tanya Blandford on 02088644921 or email [e-mail]

Start date: Monday 22nd Feb 2027

Closing date: Sunday 4th October 2026

Shortlisting date: Tuesday 6th October 2026

Interviews: Monday 19th October 2026 - Wednesday 21st October 2026