School Principal / Head of Service

TN United Kingdom; Blandford Forum; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in education is seeking a dynamic School Principal to lead The Forum School in Blandford Forum. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a school dedicated to supporting children with autism spectrum disorder and complex needs. With a focus on elevating the school's standards from 'good' to 'great', the successful candidate will engage with a multidisciplinary team to deliver tailored education and 24-hour care. This position promises significant rewards for those with a passion for making a difference in the lives of young people.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in educational leadership and management.
• Experience with SEN and residential children's care regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead educational and residential aspects of the school.
• Develop long-term strategy to transform the lives of young people.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship Building

Education

NPQH or Principals Qualifying Programme

Recognised Degree level teaching qualification

NVQ or Diploma Level 5 in Leadership & Management

Job description

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School Principal / Head of Service, Blandford Forum

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Client:

Location:

Blandford Forum, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Education

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

9262d727bae8

Job Views:

13

Posted:

05.05.2025

Expiry Date:

19.06.2025

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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 successful track record, a comprehensive understanding of both the Education and Care settings for SEN, and the drive to develop positive relationships with all stakeholders. The goal is to elevate our school from ‘good’ to ‘great’.

The role involves leading both the Education and Residential aspects of the school as the Responsible Individual (RI) for the two children’s homes registrations.

The candidate should have 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. The school and residential children’s homes are situated on the same grounds.

Leading the development of The Forum School will be challenging and intense, but with enthusiasm, creativity, and a hands-on approach, the rewards will be significant. This is 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

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 Dorset’s countryside with 28 acres, the school features facilities such as a theatre, sports hall, riding areas, climbing wall, play areas, swimming pool, and stables.

Our children have access to the National Curriculum with tailored teaching. The school offers a proven programme of specialist education and 24-hour care, with multidisciplinary teams and high staffing ratios ensuring intensive individual support. Each class has six students with at least one teacher and two teaching assistants.

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

Safeguarding Statement

Successful applicants will undergo Enhanced DBS, reference, and online checks per government regulations and Safer Recruitment practices.

Cambian conducts online searches of shortlisted candidates to assess suitability to work with children. This process is conducted by a panel member not involved in the interview to prevent bias. Information shared will be relevant and of concern only.

The Cambian Group is an Equal Opportunities employer.