Headteacher

An exceptional opportunity for an exceptional leader.

Vicarage Park School is a vibrant and dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) school catering for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and complex needs. We are at a pivotal point in our journey, the school is currently undergoing a redevelopment to transform our facilities and learning environment, creating an exciting and ambitious future for our community. We take pride in offering a highly personalised, holistic, and therapeutic approach to education, supporting not just academic progress, but emotional wellbeing, communication, independence, and quality of life.

We are seeking an inspirational, experienced Headteacher to lead us through this next chapter. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a proven track record in SLD and complex needs education, who can drive improvement, empower staff, and champion the needs and aspirations of our pupils.

We are looking for someone who:

• A qualified teacher (QTS essential) with significant leadership experience in an SEN/therapeutic setting.
• Deeply committed to therapeutic, child-centred education for children with SLD and complex needs.
• A confident strategic leader who can shape vision, deliver improvement, and inspire staff across disciplines.
• Knowledgeable in trauma-informed practice, sensory integration, communication approaches (e.g, Makaton), and multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Able to foster an inclusive culture that values every individual’s potential and wellbeing.

This is a rare opportunity to shape not only the direction of the school but also its physical and cultural transformation. You’ll be supported by a passionate team and a committed governing body who share your drive for excellence and compassion.

Safeguarding

Compass Community Schools are highly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau) and undergo due diligence checks on social media use.

All school-based staff have the responsibility for promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children.  All school staff should be aware of the school’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and work in accordance with this document at all times.

Compass is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As we continue to grow, we know that we must have the most talented employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, perspectives, and experiences to support our children and young people.