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 track record and a comprehensive understanding of both the Education and Care settings for SEN. The ideal candidate will have the drive to develop positive relationships with all key stakeholders and work closely with our teams. Our goal is to elevate our school from ‘good’ to ‘great’.
As the School Principal / Head of Service, you will lead both the Education and Residential aspects of the school, serving as the Responsible Individual (RI) for the two children’s homes registrations.
You should possess 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. Our unique school and residential children’s homes are situated on the same grounds.
Bringing our plans for The Forum School to life will be challenging and intense. However, with enthusiasm, creativity, and a hands-on approach, the rewards and satisfaction will be unparalleled. You will have a unique opportunity to shape and deliver the long-term strategy for the school and our mission to transform the lives of our 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
* Clean, current driving licence
About the School
The Forum School is a day and residential school supporting children and young people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and associated 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 the picturesque Dorset countryside on 28 acres of land, the school offers facilities such as a theatre, sports hall, indoor and outdoor riding areas, climbing wall, multiple safe play areas, a swimming pool, and stables.
Our children and young people have full access to the National Curriculum, with teaching tailored to meet their needs. The school employs a proven programme of specialist education and 24-hour care, supported by a wide range of clinical and therapeutic inputs. Multi-disciplinary teams and high staffing ratios ensure intensive individual support, with each class comprising six students, a teacher, and at least 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
Any successful application will be subject to Enhanced DBS, reference checks, and online searches in accordance with Government regulations and Safer Recruitment best practices.
Cambian conducts online searches of shortlisted candidates to assess suitability to work with children. This process is handled by a panel member not involved in the decision-making to avoid unconscious bias. Information will only be shared if relevant and of concern.
The Cambian Group is an Equal Opportunities employer.
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