HeadteacherLocation: OldhamSalary: 75000 to 85000Start: January or February 2026Contract: Full time, Permanent AboutA new independent specialist school in Oldham is preparing to open after Easter 2026, and we are looking for an experienced Headteacher to lead it from the ground up.The school will provide day education for pupils aged 5 to 16 with a wide range of SEND needs including social emotional and mental health needs, communication and interaction needs, trauma histories, and pupils requiring highly individualised learning pathways. The provision is designed for smaller class sizes, therapeutic input, structured routines, and a curriculum built around progress, regulation, and long term outcomes.This is not a maintenance role. You will be responsible for establishing the culture, systems, curriculum, safeguarding framework, and operational standards from day one, supported by a wider senior leadership network from a national specialist education provider.The roleThis is a full leadership remit. You will:Lead the opening, development, and ongoing performance of the schoolCreate and embed a strong safeguarding culture with robust compliance and reportingDesign and deliver a curriculum model that meets the needs of a diverse SEND cohortBuild, mentor, and performance manage a multidisciplinary staff teamShape behaviour and wellbeing systems that reflect a therapeutic, relational approachLead the school improvement strategy with clear priorities, timelines, and accountabilityEnsure full compliance with Independent School StandardsEstablish quality assurance processes, data tracking, assessment cycles, and documentationWork closely with external professionals, commissioners, local authorities, and parentsDrive a culture of high expectations for pupils while maintaining high supportPrepare the school for inspection and work towards an outstanding ratingLead by example, modelling the values expected across the communityThis is for someone who can manage complexity, drive standards, and stay calm when things aren’t tidy.What the ideal candidate looks likeYou’ll need to already understand the realities of leading a specialist provision. They want someone who has:Significant experience as a Headteacher in a SEND environment (not an aspiring Head)Proven success improving or establishing a specialist schoolDeep understanding of SEND practice across primary and secondary age rangesA track record of building effective staff teams and managing performanceStrong operational and strategic leadership skillsExcellent understanding of safeguarding frameworksThorough knowledge of the Independent School StandardsExpertise in curriculum design for diverse and complex needsThe resilience to lead through uncertainty, change, and growthA person centred leadership style with high challenge and high supportOutstanding communication skillsQTSIf your background is mainstream only, or you’ve never steered a SEND school through inspection or improvement, this won’t be the right fit.What’s on offerYou will be joining a well established specialist education group with a high functioning senior leadership network, structured professional development, and strong operational support. Benefits include:Occupational sick payChristmas bonusBlue Light CardReferral scheme (up to 2500)Life assuranceFinancial wellbeing supportTastecardOngoing training and leadership developmentTherapeutic training and wellbeing supportEmployee assistance programmeHigh quality CPDFree eye checksIf you want to shape a new specialist school from the ground up — with real autonomy and real responsibility — this is a rare opportunity to do it properly.