Location: Aylesbury
Overview
Inspire - Enable - Achieve
The Vale Federation is seeking an inspirational and strategic Head of School to lead Stocklake Park School, our secondary special school with 102 students on roll. The school works closely within the Federation alongside Booker Park School (Primary). The post holder will work under the direction of the Federation Principal, supported by central Federation services including HR, finance and estates.
Term time only: No
Salary type: Leadership
Salary Details: L16-L20
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Closing date: 17/05/2026
Interviews to be held: 28th May 2026
About us
Stocklake Park School is part of the Vale Federation of Special Schools and is based on two sites, Stocklake Park main site and Harding House. We offer educational provision for students with complex learning difficulties, from 11 to 19 years of age.Our vision as a Federation is to provide a supportive but challenging multi-professionals approach to the education of all the young people in our care, enabling them to achieve the greatest possible level of independence and inclusion.
We Offer:
1. A small, inclusive school within a supportive Federation
2. Centralised business, HR and finance support
3. Ongoing professional support from the Federation Principal
4. A strong Health and Wellbeing programme
5. Other Benefits include:
6. Free onsite parking
7. Large staffroom with resourced kitchen with complimentary hot and cold beverages
8. Employer contribution pension scheme, with Life Cover
9. Access to employee benefits including discounts on travel and purchases from local shops, cafes and restaurants
10. 24 hour free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme
11. Annual Flu Vaccination
About the role
The Role:
The Head of School will provide day‑to‑day leadership and management, securing high‑quality teaching, strong outcomes and positive experiences for pupils with SLD and PMLD. You will lead staff, drive continuous improvement, and ensure safeguarding, inclusion and wellbeing remain central to all aspects of school life.
Key Responsibilities:
12. Lead and manage senior and middle leaders, promoting a positive and professional culture
13. Secure high‑quality teaching and learning through effective monitoring, support and challenge
14. Lead curriculum, assessment and personal development across the school
15. Use data and self‑evaluation to drive school improvement
16. Build strong partnerships with parents, governors, external agencies and the wider community
17. Line manage key staff, including the Family Support Officer, with oversight of attendance and family engagement
18. Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
19. Support staff development, wellbeing and succession planning
For further information please see attached Job description.
About you
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
20. Qualified Teacher Status and leadership experience within an SEN setting
21. Strong knowledge of the SEN Code of Practice, particularly SLD/PMLD
22. A proven ability to inspire, motivate and develop staff
23. Excellent communication, organisational and data‑analysis skills
24. A warm, approachable leadership style with high expectations
25. A clear commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and pupil wellbeing
26. (NPQH desirable)