Full Job Description
Job Title: Head of School
Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Location: Oak Tree School, Truro, TR4 9NH
Hours: 42.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8am - 4:30pm
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: March 2026
UK Applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
As part of our continued growth, Oak Tree School is seeking an exceptional Head of School to join our dedicated team and lead the next stage of our journey. This is a unique opportunity for an inspiring leader to shape a school culture where pupils thrive, staff feel empowered and high standards are the norm.
About the Role
Working closely with the Executive Headteacher, you will play a key role in delivering outstanding educational experiences for pupils while driving strategic development, operational excellence and a strong culture of wellbeing.
Responsibilities
* Lead the school to deliver exceptional outcomes for pupils academically, socially and personally
* Create a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where safeguarding and wellbeing are central
* Motivate and develop staff to build a high‑performing and collaborative team
* Support the Executive Headteacher with strategic planning, school improvement and operational leadership
* Strengthen relationships with pupils, families, local authorities and external partners
* Oversee self‑evaluation, progress monitoring and school improvement planning
* Ensure compliance with DfE, Ofsted and safeguarding requirements
* Shape a school culture built on high expectations, compassion and innovation
About You
You are an inspirational leader who believes every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Qualifications
* Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
* Senior leadership experience within SEN, SEMH or specialist education settings
* Strong knowledge of autism, complex needs and therapeutic approaches
* Proven experience leading teams and delivering strong educational outcomes
* Expertise in curriculum leadership, assessment and school improvement
* The ability to inspire staff, engage pupils and build strong community relationships
* A full UK driving licence is required
About Us
Oak Tree School in Truro is a specialist SEMH provision supporting children and young people with social, emotional, mental health, communication and associated needs. We provide a nurturing, structured environment where pupils rebuild confidence, engage with learning, and develop independence. A personalised curriculum, therapeutic support and life skills teaching help remove barriers and promote wellbeing.
Benefits
* Life Assurance
* Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
* “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
* Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, hundreds of UK and international discounts, cycle‑to‑work scheme and electric car purchase scheme, critical illness cover, family growth support such as enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
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