Headteacher
Are you a school leader with strong experience both in the SEND Education sector, and setting up a school?
A well-established, independent school group are opening a small SEMH school in central Oldham, and are currently seeking an experienced Headteacher, to lead the setting up, and running, of the school.
The role:
* Permanent, full-time Headteacher position (January/February 2026 start)
* SEMH School, catering to children aged 5-16 with SEMH and other complex SEND needs
* Liaise closely with Group Directors and other central members of the team on all aspects of the school's opening and pre-registration
* 35-40 students: SEMH, ASC, MLD and associated needs
* Central Oldham location
* Salary: £75-85,000k
Character Specification:
* Solid experience as a school leader within SEND Education (essential)
* Experience opening a school, with strong knowledge of the process to set up an independent SEMH School (essential)
* Assertive, directive and confident in leading all aspects of the school's opening, steering the Group's continued presence in the education sector towards success!
* Creativity and insight for what an outstanding, independent SEMH school should look like, implementing strategy in line with your vision
* A love for leadership and SEMH!
This is a highly rare, special opportunity to lead the setting up and running of this independent Education and Care Group's next SEMH School! You will be instrumental in overseeing and directing all aspects of the Ofsted pre-registration process and getting the school ready to welcome pupils from Easter 2026.
As Headteacher, you will have a strong vision for what you believe a successful school looks like, and will have the freedom to get creative in making this a reality! The school takes great pride in providing sector-leading education for SEMH and SEND, and you will lead this vision!
The specialist, welcoming Group are looking for tangible experience in setting up a school within the SEND domain, ensuring the successful Headteacher can hit the ground running from day one.
For someone with a strong vision, belief in the independent SEMH sector, and experience in setting up a specialist school, this is an incredible one-off opportunity.
Set in central Oldham, the school will be conveniently located in the town centre, with on-site parking and excellent commuter links.
If this sounds like the ideal next challenge for your leadership career, apply today or send your CV to i.withey@linqrecruitment.co.uk for further information about the opportunity.