Head of School

Salary: £40,000.00 - £42,000.00

Location: The Shires at Oakham, 3 Uppingham Road, Oakham, LE15 6JB

Hours: 08:30 – 17:30, Monday – Friday

If you really want to make your mark in a rapidly growing business that is committed to improving the lives of young children and young people, we have the role for you!

We're looking for a Head of School to join our team at The Shires in Oakham, a special educational needs provision for 7 children aged 11-19. An exceptional educational practitioner with previous experience of working with children with learning disabilities and managing small teams of professionals would be perfect for this role. As Head of School you will design the curriculum and grow a nurturing and therapeutic environment to meet a range of needs including social, emotional, mental health, communication and learning difficulties. Your school will be outstanding and a leading light for our young people and their families.

About the School

The Shires consists of four sites all within a 15-minute drive of one another. The Shires in Oakham is a Special Educational Needs (SEN) School and Children’s Residential home within the Acorn Care and Education and NFA Group.

The ethos of The Shires is very much characterised by a ‘can do’ attitude. Staff share the value of creating a home-from-home for children that reflects a family atmosphere, and cater for the children on an individual basis and ensure they are well-supported.

About the Group

We are part of the Acorn Care and Education and can promise you plenty of challenges, and a rich variety of opportunities to develop your career.

Acorn Care and Education provide education and care across 20 schools and 19 residential care homes nationally. Our vision is to build incredible futures by empowering vulnerable young people in the UK to be happy and make their way in the world. Every day we improve the lives of thousands of young people, their families and communities through relentless focus on caring and learning.

About the Role

The Head of School will ensure there is a positive ethos which reflects the school’s commitment to education including the encouragement of all staff and pupils to participate fully all aspects of school life. This essential role ensures that the children are taught curriculum which is relevant to the abilities and needs of the children in an effective learning environment full of good relationships and equal opportunities.

In addition to managing the teaching team, the Head of School will also work collaboratively will the care manages to ensure seamless transitions between care and education.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for an individual who is educated to degree level or equivalent with Qualified Teacher Status. Experience of working with and managing children with sometimes challenging behaviour is essential.

We are looking for someone who knows how to bring a creative and innovative approach to improving performance and support for our pupils and their families. An excellent communicator, you will become an ambassador for Acorn Care and Education, as the role will include working in partnership with parents, local authorities and other stakeholders.

No two days at The Shires are the same, so we are looking for a Head of School who has a flexible working approach and can use their initiative. The ideal candidate will enjoy working with young people in a calm demeanour, and focuses on the positive outcomes of our young people.

In return for your experience and commitment we offer outstanding career opportunities, plus access to a network of great leaders within the Acorn Care and Education Group.

Essential Criteria

• A degree or degree level equivalent qualification
• Qualified Teacher Status
• Experience of working with children with learning disabilities
• Current full driving licence
• Experience of using B Squared or similar
• A commitment to promoting the safe guarding and well-being of children and young people

Why work for us

• Social activities
• "Your Wellbeing Matters"
• Employee Rewards Hub
• Pension
• Free School meals on site
• No two days are ever the same
• Be part of a fantastic team who work hard together and support each other
• Opportunity to enrich the lives of young people and make a positive difference
• Continuous professional development and training for a clear career path

This position is due to commence as soon as possible (subject to approved reference/DBS checks).

Applications are invited online though the Acorn Care and Education website www.acorncare.co.uk. If you have any further questions regarding how to apply please contact 01780 411944 or email katherine.hart@theshires.org.uk.

Acorn care and Education are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to fully Enhanced DBS. We expect all our employees and volunteers to share this commitment and strive to achieve the best outcome possible for everybody in our care. A full application form must be completed with all employment dates accurate and gaps in employment accounted for.