Headteacher
Are you a school leader with strong experience in both the independent SEND Education sector, and setting up a school?
A well-established, independent care group are opening their first SEMH school in central Wigan, 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 2026 start)
* SEMH School, catering to children aged 7-17 with ASC and other complex needs
* Liaise closely with the Education Consultant and other Group Directors on all aspects of the school's opening and pre-registration
* Central Wigan location
* Salary: £70,000 (slightly negotiable for the right person)
Character Specification:
* Solid experience as a school leader within the Specialist Independent Education sector (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 new education venture 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 Care Group's first ever SEMH School With the support of an Education Consultant, you will be instrumental in overseeing and directing all aspects of the Ofsted pre-registration process.
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 For example, while the age range is provisionally to be 7-17 years, if you have reason to suggest a different age range, this is not off the cards
The specialist, welcoming Care Group are looking for tangible experience in setting up an independent school within the SEND domain, ensuring the successful Headteacher can hit the ground running from day one.
With plans to develop more schools over time, you will carve the path into education for this ambitious, friendly Group. 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 (with some potential salary negotiation).
Set in central Wigan, 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 for further information about the opportunity.