Principal (Headteacher) Special Education

Nav Walker Talent Acquisition; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency in the UK is looking for an exceptional Principal for a new independent special education school in Eastleigh. This role offers the chance to shape the vision and culture of the school, ensuring high standards in education and compliance. The ideal candidate will have a strong leadership background, a passion for special education, and experience in managing educational settings. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of the Independent School Standards.
• Minimum of 5 years’ post‑qualification leadership experience.
• Proven experience in school financial management and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and clear strategic direction for the school.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding and child protection standards.
• Lead and develop the Senior Leadership Team.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Financial management

Knowledge of Independent School Standards

Understanding of safeguarding

Education

Qualified education professional

Job description

Principal (Headteacher) Special Education

Be among the first 25 applicants. Direct message the job poster from Nav Walker Talent Acquisition.

Lead a brand-new independent special school in Eastleigh.

About the Role

Excellent opportunity for an exceptional and experienced school leader to become the founding Principal of a brand-new independent special education school in Eastleigh, Hampshire. This role offers the chance to shape the school’s vision, culture, and direction from its very first day, creating an outstanding environment for students with additional learning needs to thrive.

The Principal will hold full operational responsibility for the school, driving excellence in teaching and learning while ensuring full compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. This pivotal role involves leading and developing a dedicated team, overseeing curriculum design, managing budgets, and building strong relationships with local authorities, parents, and external partners.

The position requires a strategic and inspirational leader passionate about special education and committed to delivering outstanding outcomes for all students.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and clear strategic direction for the school.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, child protection, and independent school standards.
• Lead and develop the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and School Advisory Panel (SAP).
• Oversee curriculum design, development, and quality assurance processes.
• Drive financial sustainability while maintaining high educational and pastoral standards.
• Build positive partnerships with parents, carers, and local authorities.
• Monitor student progress and implement effective interventions.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
• Represent the school within the wider education community and at relevant events.

Candidate Profile

• Strong working knowledge of the Independent School Standards.
• Qualified education professional with significant experience in SEN settings.
• Minimum of 5 years’ post‑qualification leadership experience.
• In-depth understanding of safeguarding, compliance, and quality assurance.
• Proven experience in school financial management and strategic planning.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision‑making abilities.
• Demonstrated passion for supporting students with additional learning needs.
• Ability to lead improvement strategies and maintain exceptional standards.

Why This Role?

• Opportunity to lead and shape a brand‑new school from its inception.
• Significant autonomy to develop a strong and positive school culture.
• Chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people with additional needs.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Ongoing professional development and leadership support.

Experienced education leaders with a proven record of success and a passion for special education are encouraged to apply.

To apply:

Please send a cover letter and CV to [e-mail]

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Education and Training

Industries

Education and Primary and Secondary Education