Headteacher

The Avenue School; Reading; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

The Avenue School in Reading, England, is seeking an exceptional Headteacher to lead its specialist SEND academy. You will provide strategic leadership, set the vision, and drive improvements across teaching, safeguarding and pupil welfare.

The ideal candidate will hold QTS, NPQH or equivalent leadership experience, have a proven track record of raising outcomes, and be committed to inclusive education, staff development, and partnership with families and authorities.

Qualifications

• Must hold QTS and NPQH (or equivalent) leadership experience.
• Substantial senior leadership experience in a SEND setting.
• Proven track record of raising achievement and improving outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the school.
• Build upon our culture of high expectations and continuous improvement.
• Ensure outstanding safeguarding, pastoral care and pupil welfare.
• Drive excellence in teaching, learning and curriculum development.
• Lead and develop a talented and dedicated staff team.
• Work with trustees, governors, parents, local authorities and external agencies.
• Ensure effective financial management and value for money.
• Champion inclusion and ensure personalised support for every pupil.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder engagement

People development

Education

QTS

NPQH or equivalent leadership qualification

Job description

The Avenue School is seeking an exceptional and visionary Headteacher to lead our specialist school into its next exciting chapter. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference to the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), whilst leading a dedicated and highly skilled team committed to achieving the very best outcomes for every pupil. We are looking for a leader who is passionate about inclusive education, has high expectations for all learners, and can inspire staff, pupils, families and the wider community through a clear and ambitious vision. The Role As Headteacher, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the school.
• Build upon our strong culture of high expectations and continuous improvement.
• Ensure outstanding safeguarding, pastoral care and pupil welfare.
• Drive excellence in teaching, learning and curriculum development.
• Lead and develop a talented and dedicated staff team.
• Work in close partnership with trustees, governors, parents, local authorities and external agencies.
• Ensure effective financial management and value for money.
• Act as the school's Accounting Officer, ensuring compliance with statutory, financial and regulatory requirements.
• Champion inclusion and ensure every pupil receives the personalized support they need to succeed.
• Has substantial senior leadership experience within a SEND setting
• Has developed and implemented strategies for raising achievement and improving outcomes for pupils with additional needs
• Can provide strategic and creative leadership to maintain and develop a school vision with quality of learning for all at its centre
• Can build and maintain effective relationships and communicate appropriately with governors, staff, pupils, parents and other professionals
• Is an inspirational leader who is committed to staff development and wellbeing
• Has a thorough understanding of safeguarding, SEND legislation and school improvement
• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) or equivalent leadership experience
• The opportunity to lead a highly respected specialist academy.
• A talented and committed staff team
• Engaged and supportive Trustees and Governors.
• Extensive professional development opportunities.
• A positive, nurturing and collaborative culture.
• The chance to make a profound difference to the lives of children and families.