Principal

OFG Education; Sandwell; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life Assurance

Pension scheme with options to grow

Your Wellbeing Matters

Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista)

Health, wellbeing and insurance

Hundreds of UK and international-**?

Job summary

OFG Education seeks an exceptional Principal to lead a multi-campus specialist FE college serving young people with SEMH and Autism. You will shape culture, set strategic direction, and drive an inclusive, high-quality educational experience across campuses in Great Barr, Walsall and Tamworth.

You will steward safeguarding, quality and change management while building a compassionate, high-performing team and strong partnerships with therapists and local authorities.

Qualifications

• Senior leadership in SEN/Specialist provision or FE settings.
• Experience with trauma-informed approaches.
• Familiarity with Ofsted/ISA frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and a clear, inspiring vision for a specialist SEMH and Autism setting.
• Lead safeguarding, quality, compliance and operational excellence from day one.
• Recruit, develop and inspire a skilled staff team.
• Build partnerships with therapists, parents, carers and local authorities.

Skills

SEN leadership

Trauma-informed practice

Ofsted/ISA experience

Budget & change leadership

Education

QTS or QTLS

Experience in SEMH/specialist provision

Job description

This is not just a Headship. It's a once-in-a-career opportunity to create something truly special. We are seeking an exceptional and visionary Principal to lead a multi campus specialist further education college; supporting young people with SEMH, Autism, and associated needs. The college operates across multiple campuses, located in Great Barr, Walsall, and Tamworth. From day one, you will shape the culture, values, and strategic direction of a college designed around understanding, inclusion, and ambition. Your leadership will ensure that every learner receives a personalised, high-quality educational experience that empowers them to achieve their potential and prepares them for adulthood. This is your chance to build a setting where young people who may have struggled elsewhere finally feel safe, understood and empowered to succeed. As Principal, you will have the rare opportunity to:

• Design and develop a specialist college from the ground up
• Embed therapeutic, trauma-informed practice at the heart of learning
• Create a culture where wellbeing, safety and progress go hand in hand
• Lead, inspire and grow a high-calibre multidisciplinary team
• Build a college where students belong, thrive and achieve their potential
• Make a lasting impact that will be felt for generations

If you're driven by purpose and excited by the idea of building something meaningful, this role offers true professional legacy.

What You'll Do

• Provide strategic leadership and a clear, inspiring vision for a specialist SEMH and Autism setting
• Create a nurturing, ambitious and trauma-informed environment where behaviour is understood as communication
• Lead on safeguarding, quality, compliance and operational excellence from day one
• Recruit, develop and inspire a passionate, skilled staff team
• Work in close partnership with therapists and specialists to deliver highly personalised pathways
• Build trusted relationships with parents, carers and local authorities

We're seeking a leader who brings heart, resilience and expertise in equal measure:

• An experienced Principal or Deputy Principal within SEN, SEMH, specialist provision or further education
• A deep understanding of trauma-informed practice and inclusive education
• Strong knowledge of Ofsted and/or ISA frameworks for specialist settings
• Proven ability in budget management, resource planning and leading change
• A passionate advocate for high expectations and aspirational outcomes for every student
• Qualified teacher (QTS/QTLS) with significant SEN leadership experience
• At OFG Education, we believe every student deserves an education designed around who they are. Through high expectations, deep expertise and truly personalised education, we help students realise their potential and prepare for successful futures.

Building on more than 20 years of experience, we are bringing our approach to more students and communities around the world. Across the UK, Iberia and the Gulf, our schools combine the strength, expertise and high standards of an international education group with the individuality of each school and the communities they serve. Whatever your role, joining OFG Education means contributing to our shared ambition: empowering every student to success through truly personalised education. About Our School Care First provides person-centred education and day provision for young adults with learning difficulties, autism, mental health needs and complex needs. Our tailored programmes help learners develop life skills, build independence and thrive within their communities. We are proud to be a part of OFG Education who in 2025 were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the sixth year running.

We place students and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• "Your Wellbeing Matters" - mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
• Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
• Hundreds of UK and international discounts
• Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support