School Principal / Head of Service

Eteach; Blandford Forum; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an exceptional School Principal to lead a unique educational institution. This role offers the chance to shape the future of a school dedicated to supporting children with autism and complex needs. The successful candidate will elevate the school's standards, ensuring a nurturing environment that fosters growth and learning. With a focus on collaboration, creativity, and strategic leadership, you will drive initiatives that transform lives and make a meaningful impact in the community. Join a passionate team committed to excellence in education and care.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading educational and residential services.
• Knowledge of Children's Homes regulations and independent school standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead both Education and Residential aspects of the school.
• Develop positive relationships with stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Engagement

Strategic Planning

Knowledge of SEN Regulations

Education

NPQH or Principals Qualifying Programme

Recognised Degree Level Teaching Qualification

NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management

Job description

School Principal / Head of Service

Location: The Forum School, Blandford Forum, Dorset

Salary: up to £90,000 DOE + Performance related bonuses and Management Incentive Plan eligibility

We are seeking an outstanding school leader with a proven track record and comprehensive understanding of both the Education and Care settings for SEN. The ideal candidate will have the drive to develop positive relationships with stakeholders and work closely with our teams. Your goal will be to elevate our school from ‘good’ to ‘great’.

As the School Principal / Head of Service, this role involves leading both the Education and Residential aspects of the school, acting as the Responsible Individual (RI) for the two children’s homes registrations.

You should possess experience and knowledge of Children’s Homes regulations and independent school standards to effectively lead the school. The children’s homes are managed by an experienced Registered Manager, and the school by an experienced head teacher. Our unique school and residential children’s homes are located on the same grounds.

Bringing our plans for The Forum School to life will be challenging and intense, but with enthusiasm, creativity, and a hands-on approach, the rewards will be significant. You will have a unique opportunity to shape and deliver the long-term strategy for the school and our mission to transform the lives of young people.

Desirable Qualifications

• NPQH or Principals Qualifying Programme (other relevant qualifications and/or experience may be acceptable)
• Recognised Degree level teaching qualification or equivalent / Social Work Qualification or Equivalent
• NVQ or Diploma Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Residential Children's Services or equivalent
• Previous experience as a Registered Manager/RI in a Residential Children's Care Setting
• NVQ Level 4 in Leadership and Management for Care Services
• Clean, current driving licence

About the School

The Forum School is a day and residential school supporting children up to 52 weeks for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and complex needs. The onsite homes are rated as Good in all areas by OFSTED (September 2024), and the school is rated as RI, with Behaviour and Attitudes rated as Good.

Located in the Dorset countryside on 28 acres, the school features facilities such as a theatre, sports hall, indoor and outdoor riding areas, climbing wall, safe play areas, swimming pool, and stables.

Our children have access to the National Curriculum with tailored teaching to meet their needs. The school combines specialist education and 24-hour care, with multidisciplinary teams and high staffing ratios providing intensive individual support. Each class has six students, supported by a teacher and at least two teaching assistants.

Our teams are committed to Cambian’s goals and understand the challenges and rewards of working with our young people to make every day extraordinary.

Safeguarding Statement

Applicants will be subject to Enhanced DBS, reference, and online checks in line with government regulations and Safer Recruitment practices. Cambian conducts online searches of shortlisted candidates to ensure suitability for working with children, conducted by individuals not on the appointment panel to avoid bias. Information shared will be relevant and of concern.

The Cambian Group is an Equal Opportunities employer.