An Exceptional Leadership Opportunity in Specialist Education
Headteacher – Anstey Manor School, Alton
Opening in 2026 | Part of the Cavendish Education Family
Anstey Manor School is a brand-new specialist day school in Alton, Hampshire, due to open in 2026 for pupils aged 7–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), and associated additional needs. The school is seeking an ambitious, visionary, and compassionate Headteacher to lead it through the pre-opening phase and into its inaugural years.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to help shape and open a school from the ground up – building a culture rooted in empathy, kindness, high expectations, and aspirational outcomes. Anstey Manor will join the Cavendish Education family of schools, a leading group of specialist and independent schools across the UK committed to innovative, inclusive, and pupil-centred education.
The Role
As the founding Headteacher, you will provide the strategic direction and inspirational leadership necessary to create a thriving, inclusive school community. From preparing for regulatory approval to recruiting the staff team, overseeing pupil admissions, and establishing an innovative curriculum, you will help to shape the school's values and ethos and will be instrumental in realising the school's vision from day one.
You will be supported by the wider Cavendish Education team and will work closely with the governing body to ensure that every decision reflects Cavendish Education's commitment to excellent outcomes, safeguarding, and wellbeing for all pupils and staff.
The school is seeking a Headteacher who will:
* Lead with integrity, empathy, and confidence, placing pupil wellbeing and success at the heart of every decision.
* Establish a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment where pupils feel understood, valued, and supported to reach their full potential.
* Demonstrate a proven track record of effective SEN leadership and school improvement.
* Build and lead a strong, multi-disciplinary team of teachers, therapists, and support staff.
* Communicate with warmth and clarity, developing strong relationships with pupils, families, colleagues, and professionals.
* Promote a school culture that celebrates individuality, resilience, kindness, and responsibility.
* Take a strategic and operational lead in preparing the school for opening, including staff recruitment, pupil admissions, compliance, curriculum design, and cultural foundations.
* Champion the values of Confidence, Competence, Creativity, and Character in every aspect of school life.
Why Lead at Anstey Manor?
Joining Anstey Manor School at this pivotal stage offers more than a new role – it provides the chance to shape the culture, ethos, and impact of a brand-new school. You will benefit from:
* A competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership responsibilities.
* Membership of a Pension Scheme and Life Assurance Scheme.
* Strong support from Cavendish Education's senior leaders and peer network.
* Opportunities for professional growth and innovation in a dynamic, highly regarded educational group.
* Free lunch, on-site parking, and subsidised gym membership.
* Electric Vehicle Benefit Programme.
* The chance to build a team and legacy within a trusted, values-led education group.
Application Process
Expressions of interest in this exceptional opportunity should be directed via the Cavendish Education website or by contacting to request an application pack.
Closing date for applications:
Friday 26th September 2025.
Informal discussions and school visits:
Available on request.
Formal in-person interviews:
Week commencing 13th October 2025.
Start date:
April 2026 or sooner by mutual agreement.
Anstey Manor School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to the receipt of a completed application form, satisfactory references, and an Enhanced DBS Disclosure.