Headteacher

Integrity Education Solutions are supporting a specialist independent provider with an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and visionary senior leader to take on the role of Principal at a new forward-thinking specialist SEND college – (19 – 25 years), opening in September 2026, based in the West Midlands.

This is a pivotal leadership position for a passionate individual who is committed to transforming outcomes for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and shaping the future of specialist education provision. The organisation delivers a highly personalised, therapeutically informed education model, designed specifically to support young people with complex needs as they transition into adulthood. Its approach integrates education, emotional wellbeing, independence development, and employability, ensuring learners are fully prepared for meaningful and sustainable adult lives.

You will provide strategic and operational leadership across the college, driving excellence in education delivery, safeguarding, quality assurance, and outcomes. They will play a key role in further developing a model that is already closely aligned with national SEND reforms, including a strong focus on Preparation for Adulthood outcomes such as independent living, employment, community participation, and wellbeing.

The Role

As Principal will be responsible for leading the college’s vision, growth, and day-to-day operations, ensuring the highest standards of education, care, and student experience. Working closely with senior leadership and external stakeholders, the post-holder will drive continuous improvement, maintain regulatory compliance, and position the college as a leading provider within the SEND sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the college, ensuring alignment with SEND reforms and organisational vision
• Lead on quality of education, curriculum design, and outcomes for learners with complex SEND needs
• Champion a therapeutically informed, EHCP-led approach to education and student development
• Ensure outstanding safeguarding practices and a culture of student wellbeing and safety
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Local Authorities, commissioners, and external partners
• Drive occupancy, growth, and sustainable service development
• Oversee financial performance, resource planning, and operational effectiveness
• Lead, inspire, and develop a multidisciplinary team, fostering a high-performance culture
• Ensure compliance with Ofsted frameworks and all regulatory requirements
• Act as a key ambassador for the organisation within the sector

About You

The ideal candidate will be a highly experienced senior leader within education or specialist SEND provision, with a proven track record of delivering outstanding outcomes and leading high-performing teams.

You will demonstrate:

• Significant leadership experience as a Principal, Headteacher, or senior leader within SEND or specialist education
• Strong understanding of EHCP processes, SEND Code of Practice, and post-16/post-18 provision
• Experience working with Local Authorities and commissioning processes
• A deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people with complex needs
• Proven ability to drive quality, growth, and operational excellence
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
• Strong commercial awareness and experience managing budgets and resources
• A collaborative and values-driven leadership style

Why Apply?

This is a rare opportunity to lead an innovative and impactful organisation that is redefining success in SEND education. The college’s model focuses on real-world outcomes, including independence, wellbeing, and employability, rather than solely academic attainment, ensuring learners are fully prepared for adulthood.

You will play a central role in shaping the future of specialist provision, influencing system-wide change, and making a lasting difference to the lives of young people and their families.

If you are a strategic, compassionate, and driven leader ready to take on a high-impact role, we would welcome your application.

Salary: £85,000 - £100,000 (Dependent on experience)

If this role is of interest, please contact Kenny Fraser at Integrity Education Solutions.

Integrity Education Solutions and the school are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to enhanced DBS and full pre-employment checks. Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community.