Branthwaite Academy
Cumbria
£72,162 - £87,651 per year
Salary:
Head of School - L16-L20 (£72,162 - £79,475) Headteacher - L20-L24 (£79,475 - £87,651)
Job type:
Full Time, Permanent
Apply by:
22 September 2025
Job overview
Head of Branthwaite Academy
Lead with Purpose. Inspire with Integrity. Transform Lives.
Branthwaite Academy is a pioneering specialist school dedicated to transforming the lives of autistic children and young people situated in West Cumbria. We are seeking an inspirational and forward-thinking Head of School or Headteacher to lead our passionate team and build on the strong foundations already in place.
Our Mission
To provide children and young people with autism the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential and prepare for adulthood with confidence, dignity and independence.
As our new Head, you will embody our values of Inclusivity, Innovation, Honesty, High Expectations, Purpose and Potential, ensuring they permeate every aspect of school life.
About the Role
* This is a rare opportunity to lead a truly unique provision. You will be responsible for:
* Leading the strategic direction and development of the school in line with our vision as a "Centre of Excellence for Autism in West Cumberland"
* Ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning, therapeutic support and outcomes for every pupil
* Working closely with families, professionals, and the wider community to build meaningful partnerships
* Leading and developing a skilled and dedicated staff team with integrity and compassion
* Maintaining robust safeguarding, SEND, and curriculum practices in line with statutory requirements
Driving innovation while upholding our culture of care, respect, and high expectations
We are looking for someone who:
* Is an experienced school leader, ideally within a special school or inclusive setting
* Has a deep understanding of autism and neurodivergent learners
* Is passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND
* Is strategic, resilient, and reflective, with the capacity to inspire and motivate others
* Has a strong commitment to inclusive, person-centred education
Can lead with empathy while holding high standards for all
In return, we offer:
* A vibrant, child-centred school community with a clear moral purpose
* The opportunity to shape the future direction of a growing and innovative school
* A committed and skilled staff team, supportive families, and engaged governors
* A beautiful rural setting within reach of the Lake District
* Strong partnerships with local authorities and SEND networks
A commitment to your professional development and wellbeing.
Branthwaite Academy and the Eden Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check.
The Eden Academy may from time to time require an employee to be relocated temporarily or permanently to one of its other schools. Any proposal to relocate will be carried out with due consultation and reasonable notice.
About Branthwaite Academy
Branthwaite Academy
Branthwaite Road, Workington
Cumbria
CA14 4SS
United Kingdom
Branthwaite Academy (previously Cumbria Academy for Autism) is passionate about our vision to create life changing opportunities for autistic children and young people in West Cumberland.
We believe that with the right environment, all autistic children have the potential to excel in every aspect of their academic and personal lives, both now and in the future.
Our mission is to provide children and young people with autism the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential. By preparing them for adulthood, we aim to help them lead fulfilling, happy, and purposeful lives.
Branthwaite Academy is a member of the
Eden Academy Trust
, a family of schools for children and young people with a range of learning disabilities including those who may be autistic and those who have physical or sensory needs.
Please note that you are wholly responsible for fact checking in respect of the information provided by schools. Please also check for the latest visa and work permit requirements that may apply. Tes is not responsible for the content of advertisements or the policies adopted by advertising schools. Tes asks that all schools followTes' Fair Recruitment Policy.