Headteacher

The Propeller Academy Trust; Woodeaton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational trust in the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside is seeking an inspiring Headteacher to lead their special school. The ideal candidate will have extensive senior leadership experience in specialist education settings, a commitment to inclusion, and the vision to drive continuous improvement. This role offers a competitive salary and a supportive environment with strong partnerships with families and the community. If you're dedicated to promoting educational excellence and safeguarding, we welcome your application.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Fully funded CPD, mentoring & coaching

Paid wellbeing days

Teachers’ Pension Scheme

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• Proven track record in leading educational improvement.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
• Skilled in building partnerships with families and the community.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the school.
• Lead day-to-day operations with a hands-on approach.
• Ensure robust governance, compliance, and financial sustainability.

Skills

Senior leadership experience in specialist education settings

Curriculum development

Data-driven strategies

Strong communication skills

Commitment to safeguarding

Resilience and adaptability

Job description

DescriptionEmployerLocation

‘...Reducing Barriers to Expand Horizons....’

We are seeking an experienced, visionary leader who can inspire others and deliver outstanding outcomes for our pupils.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a special school situated in the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, just a few miles from the historic city of Oxford. Our school occupies a beautiful Grade II listed manor house, providing a distinctive and inspiring setting for learning.

As Headteacher, you will provide strategic leadership and vision, working in close partnership with governors, staff, families, and external agencies to maintain and enhance the school’s reputation for excellence. You will lead a skilled and dedicated team, ensuring the highest standards of teaching, care, and safeguarding.

If you share our commitment to transforming lives through education, we look forward to receiving your application.

What we Offer

• Competitive salary
• Fully funded CPD, mentoring & coaching
• A trust-wide commitment to wellbeing, including paid wellbeing days , and free on-site parking
• Flexible working options
• Access to an employee assistance programme
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme
• Employee referral scheme (earn up to £500 for successful referrals)
• Highly resourced classrooms, small class sizes and access to multidisciplinary teams
• A strong safegua rding and therapeutic culture

About the Role

• Drive a culture of continuous improvement in teaching and learning
• Lead day‑to‑day operations with a hands‑on approach
• Strengthen the school’s inclusive culture and commitment to wellbeing
• Develop strong partnerships with families and the wider community
• Ensure robust governance, compliance, and financial sustainability
• Lead innovation while preserving the school’s unique character and heritage
• Work closely with the Propeller Academy Trust to achieve strategic objectives

Who We’re Looking For

• An experienced senior leader with a proven track record in specialist education settings.
• Ambitious and driven , with the vision and energy to lead continuous improvement and inspire excellence.
• Committed to inclusion , ensuring every child is valued and supported to achieve their full potential.
• Skilled in curriculum development, teaching and learning improvement, and staff development.
• Confident in using data and evidence‑based strategies to raise achievement.
• A strong communicator and outward‑facing ambassador , able to build positive relationships with staff, families, and external stakeholders.
• Dedicated to safeguarding, compliance, and equality, with a deep understanding of SEND and statutory requirements.
• Resilient, adaptable, and ready to lead with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.

How to Apply

For more information or to apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided . Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Visits to the school are strongly encouraged. To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager

Safeguarding Information

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy / maternity.

Safeguarding Statement

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy / maternity.