Principal

We are looking for a Principal to lead and further develop The Shires, offering an outstanding care and learning experience across four sites, including the School and Residential Care settings. We provide specialist education, care and therapy for 24 children and young people aged 11 to 19 years, with moderate to severe learning difficulties, including those on the Autistic Spectrum. We also provide care for 8 vulnerable adults within their own residential setting. The Shires is an Acorn Care and Education school, which forms part of the NFA Group, a leading Independent UK provider of Education, Care and Fostering services. 

At The Shires we put the child’s needs first aiming to exceed expectations, promoting as much independence as possible and nurturing a fun, family atmosphere. As Principal, you will provide inspirational and motivational leadership and a primary focus on quality. You will set strategy, working with the team to balance care, therapeutic and educational initiatives, delivering a multi-disciplinary approach that maintains a fun and nurturing environment whilst achieving for the children.

Working with the Director of Education and Governors, you will ensure the school has effective management and the required team capability to further develop and continually improve.

You will be joining an experienced and committed staff team and will have the opportunity to help set the direction of a successful school that is unique in its region. You will have access to shared best practice, an unrivalled peer group and a wealth of experience across the 17 Acorn Care and Education schools.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic leader who shares our values, inspires and motivates our staff, and delivers outstanding support, care and outcomes to the young people and adults we serve. You will lead by example as a visible presence, interacting and engaging with the cross disciplinary team within the School, Care Homes, and the wider Group.

We are interested in applications from senior staff who have proven and significant experience in SEN teaching, as well as experience of working in a residential setting, and a working knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations and Care Standards and/or CQC. You will understand the challenges within the education and care provisions and you will champion the advantages of an integrated approach. As Principal you will be accountable for regulatory compliance and safeguarding.

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 act as an ambassador for The Shires, and will have demonstrable experience of working in partnership with parents, commissioners, local authorities and other stakeholders.

In return for your experience and commitment we offer outstanding career opportunities within the wider Acorn Care and Education Group. You will have access to best practice, a network of great Headteachers, Care Leaders and experts and the chance to shape the future and ongoing development of the school.

Closing date for applications: Friday 3rd April

Open Day: Friday 6th April - Please contact hr-enquiries@acorncare.co.uk or call 01204 558 058 if you would like to book a place.

1st stage interviews:  12th April

2nd stage interviews: 18th April

Acorn Care and Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children and young people in our care. Successful applicants will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.