Head of School - SEMH Unit

Job Introduction

A unique opportunity to build, lead and shape a specialist SEMH provision

Do you believe that every child deserves to feel safe, valued and successful?

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for inclusion and supporting children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs?

Pennington C of E Primary School is seeking an exceptional leader to become the founding Head of School for our new SEMH Inclusion Base. This is a rare opportunity to establish and lead a specialist provision that will make a life-changing difference to children and families across Hampshire. 

Working under the leadership of the Headteacher and Governing Body of Pennington C of E Primary School, you will lead the day-to-day operation and development of the Inclusion Base while remaining an integral part of the wider school leadership team. This is not a standalone headship; it is an opportunity to combine the autonomy of leading a specialist provision with the support, collaboration and shared vision of an established, successful and inclusive primary school.

Our vision is simple:

Every child belongs. Every child matters. Every child can achieve. 

The Inclusion Base has been developed to support children whose social, emotional and mental health needs require a highly personalised, nurturing and therapeutic approach. We are creating a provision where relationships come first, where behaviour is understood as communication, and where children are empowered to develop confidence, resilience and a love of learning. 

As Head of School, you will shape the culture, systems and practice of this new provision from the very beginning. You will lead and develop a dedicated team, establish outstanding therapeutic and educational approaches, work closely with families and external agencies, and ensure every child receives the support they need to flourish both academically and emotionally. 

You will work in close partnership with the Headteacher, contributing to the wider strategic development of inclusion across the school while developing the specialist expertise and identity of the Inclusion Base. This role offers genuine scope for innovation, creativity and leadership whilst benefiting from the guidance and support of an experienced school leadership team. 

We are looking for someone who:

• Has successful leadership experience within a school or specialist setting.
• Has significant experience supporting children with SEMH needs.
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of trauma-informed, attachment-aware and relational practice.
• Has the ability to build exceptionally positive relationships with children, families and professionals.
• Can inspire, motivate and develop staff through coaching and professional development.
• Has high expectations and an unwavering commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and equity.
• Is resilient, reflective and solution-focused.
• Shares our belief that every child can succeed when given the right support and opportunities. 

What we can offer

• The opportunity to establish and lead a brand-new SEMH Inclusion Base from its inception.
• Membership of the senior leadership team of Pennington C of E Primary School.
• Strategic support and professional guidance from the Headteacher and governing body.
• A strong culture of inclusion, collaboration and professional trust.
• Access to high-quality professional development and leadership opportunities.
• The chance to make a profound and lasting difference to the lives of children and families.
• A caring, values-led school community where relationships sit at the heart of everything we do. 

This role would suit an experienced SEND leader, SENCO, Assistant Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher or specialist practitioner who is ready for an exciting leadership challenge and wants to shape something truly special.

If you are passionate about improving outcomes for children with SEMH needs and excited by the opportunity to build an outstanding provision within the supportive framework of an established primary school, we would love to hear from you.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged.

For an informal discussion or to arrange a visit, please contact the school office on 01590 672104

Safer Recruitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.