Head of Education

MindSenseAbility (MSA) is a specialist therapy and education service based in the New Forest for young people with Autism, developmental trauma and mental health needs. All our students receive bespoke educational therapeutic programmes delivered in a variety of environments through the funding of the local education authorities, health and adoption services.

Exciting Leadership Opportunity:

Head of Education for a Specialist SEN Independent School & Alternative Provision

Are you an experienced and dynamic educational leader ready to make a lasting impact? Join our innovative and inspiring team as the Head of Education at a brand-new Specialist SEN Independent School, alongside an established Alternative Provision, offering an exciting opportunity to shape the future of education for up to 40 young people.

This is not just a leadership role – it’s a chance to help build a truly transformative learning environment. Set in the rural beauty of the New Forest, the school will offer a highly creative curriculum that includes outdoor learning, Forest School, and therapeutic practices. With a focus on providing young people with the tools to thrive, you'll have the opportunity to influence and inspire an extraordinary team of educators, therapists, and clinicians.

As the Head of Education, you will be at the heart of an ambitious Senior Management Team, playing a key role in shaping the ethos, vision, and operations of the school. You will work in closely with the Clinical Team, ensuring that education is integrated with therapeutic support to promote holistic development for every young person.

The role offers the chance to create and lead a high-quality teaching and learning environment that truly caters to the individual needs of students with special educational needs. Your leadership will inspire and empower staff, nurture a culture of collaboration, and drive innovation, making learning an exciting journey for students who have faced challenges in education.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Providing visionary leadership and direction for the educational service

Developing and delivering a dynamic and creative curriculum that includes outdoor learning and Forest School

Supporting a passionate team of staff in creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for young people

Ensuring high standards of teaching and learning, with a focus on individualized, therapeutic approaches

Collaborating with external professionals, including OFSTED, to continually raise the bar for education

Driving positive outcomes and impact for young people with special educational needs

Who We’re Looking For:

A dedicated leader with at least 10 years of teaching experience and a proven track record in managing and developing staff within a special educational needs environment

Experience working with young people who face challenges in education, with a deep understanding of how to support their development

A current or aspiring Headteacher, Deputy/Assistant Head, or Head of Department, with a passion for shaping education and leading a collaborative team

A creative and flexible thinker, able to adapt and innovate within a supportive, multidisciplinary team

Someone who is committed to working within a therapeutic, inclusive, and nurturing environment

This is a rare opportunity to play an integral part in developing an educational environment that places young people at the heart of everything we do. You’ll be part of an exceptional team who are committed to making a real difference to the lives of students. If you’re ready for a rewarding challenge and are excited about shaping the future of special educational needs education, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, you must have access to a car, as the role requires you to travel throughout Hampshire, Dorset, and occasionally visit students’ homes.

Embark on a career journey where your leadership can make an extraordinary difference

This is a full-time post, 41 weeks per year and hours may vary weekly.

Salary based on Leadership scale and can be discussed further at interview, depending on experience

For further details on the role, please contact Sandy Teal: sandy@mindsenseability.co.uk

or 01590 626541

Enquiries and visits are welcome

For application forms and a copy of the job description, please visit the vacancies section of our website www.mindsenseability.co.uk

Closing deadline for completed applications: Friday 17th January 2025

Interviews will be conducted: Wednesday 22nd and Friday 24th January 2025

Completed applications and enquires about the recruitment process should be sent to recruitment@mindsenseability.co.uk 

MindSenseAbility is an equal opportunities employer and committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.