Headteacher - The Avenue School

Reading Borough Council; Normanton on Trent; On-site; GBP 114,000 - 132,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Supportive trustees

Collaborative culture

Leadership opportunity

Job summary

The Avenue School in Reading seeks an inspirational Headteacher to lead our specialist academy for pupils aged 3–19 with SEND. The role focuses on inclusive education, high expectations, and ambitious vision to improve outcomes for every pupil.

Start date: April or September 2027, with DBS clearance and references required. You will lead strategic planning, drive teaching excellence, manage financial stewardship, and collaborate with trustees, governors and external partners to secure lasting

Qualifications

• Substantial senior leadership experience within a SEND setting.
• Experience in developing strategies to raise achievement and outcomes for pupils with additional needs.
• Ability to provide strategic and creative leadership to a school vision.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for The Avenue School.
• Build on a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement.
• Ensure safeguarding, pastoral care and pupil welfare are outstanding.
• Drive excellence in teaching, learning and curriculum development.
• Lead and develop a talented staff team and work with trustees, governors, parents and external agencies.
• Oversee financial management and value for money; act as Accounting Officer.

Education

QTS / NPQH

Job description

Headteacher - The Avenue School

Reading 03/12/2026

Job details

Salary £113,646 to £131,578 Per year Contractual hours 32.5 Basis Full time Region Permanent / Full-Time Job category/type Early Years Services, Education, Managerial, Schools, Teaching, Youth Work Date posted 06/11/2026 Job reference SCH3598

Job description

Full Time - 1.0 FTE - Permanent - Start Date: April or September 2027
Are you an inspirational leader who believes that every child can thrive?
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.
About The Avenue School
The Avenue School is a thriving specialist academy providing education and support for more than 260 pupils aged between 3 – 19, with a range of severe or profound learning difficulties, some physical disabilities and autism.
Our vision is to ensure that every pupil develops the skills, confidence and independence needed to achieve their potential and lead fulfilling lives.
We have small well-resourced classes and a real passion for supporting young people to have active and healthy lives through an exciting education both in and out of the classroom.
We are proud of our committed staff, supportive families and strong culture built on respect, inclusion and excellence.
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 personalised support they need to succeed.

We Are Looking for Someone Who

• 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 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.

We Offer

• 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.

The Avenue School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS clearance, satisfactory references, online checks and appropriate safeguarding procedures.