Job Introduction
The postholder will provide strategic leadership in line with the Trust’s vision to ensure the highest quality of education and care for all pupils whose primary or secondary need is identified as social, emotional and mental health (SEMH).
This is a unique leadership role, created to support an existing primary specialist SEMH school while it is subject to an academy order. The post has been developed to provide stability, continuity, and high-quality leadership during this period, working closely with the CEO, Trust leaders, the Local Authority, and the current school leadership team to maintain strong provision and positive outcomes for pupils.
The role represents a strategic investment by the Trust to strengthen and further develop specialist SEMH provision for primary-aged learners. The postholder will contribute to ongoing school improvement, support effective systems and practice, and help ensure readiness for potential academisation.
Should the Trust not be successful in sponsoring the school, the postholder will remain part of the SST Leadership Team and will lead on the development of SEMH provision across the Trust, providing specialist expertise and strategic guidance to support SEMH practice both within the Trust and more widely across the city.
Subject to the completion of the academy order and the successful establishment of the school within the Trust, the postholder will have the opportunity to express an interest in the substantive Headteacher position. Should this be secured, the role and remuneration will be adjusted accordingly to reflect the responsibilities of the post.
This role offers an excellent development opportunity for experienced senior leaders who are aspiring to headship. Candidates with a strong interest in taking the next step towards a substantive Headteacher role are strongly encouraged to apply, as the position provides valuable strategic leadership experience within a specialist SEMH setting, alongside the Trust Leadership Team.
Closing date 6th March 2026 at 12pm. Interviews will be 17th March 2026.
Scale: Leadership Scale: L17-L22.
Great Oaks is part of the Specialist Schools Trust which also includes Rosewood Free School.
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.
