Principal – Specialist SEMH & Autism College
We are seeking an exceptional and visionary Principal to lead a multi‑campus specialist further education college supporting young people with SEMH, Autism and associated needs. The college operates across Great Barr, Walsall and Tamworth.
From day one, you will shape the culture, values and strategic direction of a college designed around understanding, inclusion and ambition. Your leadership will ensure that every learner receives a personalised, high‑quality educational experience that empowers them to achieve their potential and prepares them for adulthood.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and develop a specialist college from the ground up
* Embed therapeutic, trauma‑informed practice at the heart of learning
* Create a culture where wellbeing, safety and progress go hand in hand
* Lead, inspire and grow a high‑calibre multidisciplinary team
* Build a college where students belong, thrive and achieve their potential
* Make a lasting impact that will be felt for generations
What You’ll Do
* Provide strategic leadership and a clear, inspiring vision for a specialist SEMH and Autism setting
* Create a nurturing, ambitious and trauma‑informed environment where behaviour is understood as communication
* Lead on safeguarding, quality, compliance and operational excellence from day one
* Recruit, develop and inspire a passionate, skilled staff team
* Work in close partnership with therapists and specialists to deliver highly personalised pathways
* Build trusted relationships with parents, carers and local authorities
Qualifications & Experience
* An experienced Principal or Deputy Principal within SEN, SEMH, specialist provision or further education
* A deep understanding of trauma‑informed practice and inclusive education
* Strong knowledge of Ofsted and/or ISA frameworks for specialist settings
* Proven ability in budget management, resource planning and leading change
* A passionate advocate for high expectations and aspirational outcomes for every student
* Qualified teacher (QTS/QTLS) with significant SEN leadership experience
Salary & Working Hours
Salary: £80,000.00 per annum (not pro rata)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 08:00 am – 04:00 pm
Contract: Permanent | Term time only
Eligibility: UK applicants only – no sponsorship offered
Benefits
* Life assurance
* Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
* "Your Wellbeing Matters" – mental health support and physical health checks
* Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista): health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, hundreds of UK and international discounts, cycle‑to‑work and electric car purchase schemes, critical illness cover, family growth support (enhanced maternity/paternity leave, paid fertility treatment support)
* We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications
About the Organisation
Care First provides person‑centred education and day provision for young adults with learning difficulties, autism, mental health needs and complex needs. Our tailored programmes help learners develop life skills, build independence and thrive within their communities.
We are part of Options Autism, which for over 19 years has delivered specialist care and education for children, young people and adults with autism and complex needs. Together, we are part of Outcomes First Group, pioneers of innovative, evidence‑based approaches that create meaningful, measurable outcomes.
In 2025, Outcomes First Group was officially certified as a “Great Place to Work” for the sixth year running – something we’re incredibly proud of.
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, and are committed to safeguarding and promoting their welfare. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
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