Head Teacher (SEND) – New Residential School Location: Keswick, Cumbria Salary: Competitive Start Date: September 2025 Be part of something transformational with New Reflexions A Rare Opportunity to Shape the Future of a New SLD-Focused School! New Reflexions, a well-established organisation known for its Outstanding and Good-rated schools and homes since 2007, is opening Old Windebrowe School — a brand new residential special school set in the beautiful surroundings of Keswick, Cumbria. This is a unique opportunity to lead from the very start, taking ownership of the vision, values and success of a nurturing and inclusive educational setting for students aged 5–18 with complex learning disabilities and needs. About the Role We are seeking a highly skilled, compassionate, and visionary Head Teacher who is experienced in working with pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties and associated conditions, and who can: Lead the registration process and school opening, ensuring all statutory and quality standards are met Develop a bespoke curriculum tailored to the needs of SLD learners, within a 24-hour integrated care and education model Foster a therapeutic, person-centred ethos that promotes communication, independence, and emotional regulation Work in close partnership with our Registered Manager to deliver a seamless, child-centred residential experience Embed a culture of high expectations, inclusive practice, and individualised achievement for every learner Key Responsibilities Shaping the Future Create and implement a shared vision and ethos for the school Develop and maintain a strategic plan in collaboration with New Reflexions Directors Build a culture of inclusion, high expectations, and continuous improvement Leading Teaching and Learning Ensure high-quality teaching through a stimulating, needs-led curriculum Promote innovation, student engagement, and progress across all key stages Implement effective assessment, behaviour, and attendance strategies Staff Leadership and Development Inspire, support, and develop a high-performing team Delegate effectively, manage staff performance, and support professional growth Lead by example and uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism Deployment of Resources Recruit, deploy and manage staff and resources in line with strategic goals Ensure compliance with health, safety, and safeguarding responsibilities Maximise value for money while improving learning outcomes Strengthening Community Links Promote inclusion, diversity, and community involvement Build partnerships with parents, carers, agencies, and local stakeholders Embed the school within the local community through shared initiatives and services Person Specification We’re looking for someone who: Has Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and significant leadership experience within SEND/SLD settings and a proven record of good or outstanding teaching practice Has a strong background in supporting learners with severe learning difficulties, sensory needs, autism, and behaviours of concern, with an understanding of managing behaviour that challenges and supporting students who are neurodiverse Is confident in developing differentiated, engaging, and meaningful curriculums focused on communication, self-regulation, and life skills Understands the barriers to learning faced by SLD pupils and is passionate about removing them Have the passion and resilience to make a difference to the lives of their students Benefits Free access to 5 caravans throughout the UK for a personal holiday Bike-to-work and electric vehicle scheme Laptop and mobile phone Ongoing CPD and professional qualifications Supportive supervision and leadership coaching Access to well-being and EAP services Blue Light Card Small class sizes with a focus on individual learning journeys A chance to make a real impact in children’s lives Ready to Make a Difference? If you're a passionate leader ready to inspire change, build something new, and make a lifelong impact, we want to hear from you. Join New Reflexions and help create a school where every child is seen, valued, and supported to thrive. Apply now to lead Old Windebrowe School into a bright future! We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, as this post of teaching assistant is a regulated activity and/or on a regulated site the successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and our safer recruitment process. If you have any questions regarding this, please highlight these in your application.