Due to the expansion of Fitzwaryn into a satellite site on the site of St John’s Academy in Grove in September 2026, Propeller Academy Trust is looking to extend their leadership capacity at Fitzwaryn to retain strategic oversight, quality assurance and consistency of practice across all sites, including curriculum, therapeutic approaches and behaviour frameworks.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and motivated Head of School to join our Senior Leadership Team in this key strategic post, working in close partnership with the Executive Headteacher/Trust Leadership to deliver the school’s vision, contribute to strategic planning, and uphold a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment for pupils with diverse and complex needs.
Located in the heart of Wantage, Fitzwaryn School is highly regarded as an outstanding provision for educating children and young people aged 3-19 with severe learning difficulties (SLD), profound & multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and autism (ASD). We are committed to providing the very best for our pupils and we know that strong leadership behind the scenes is essential to making that happen.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Full induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEN training
- Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
- Flexible working options (part‑time or job share considered)
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Refer‑a‑friend scheme (earn up to £500)
- A strong, therapeutic and supportive school culture
About the Role
- Lead whole‑school strategy for SEND, inclusion and personal development in line with trust vision
- Ensure outstanding, personalised and therapeutic provision for pupils with complex SEND
- Drive high‑quality teaching, curriculum design, assessment and communication approaches (AAC/Makaton/PECS)
- Embed a strong safeguarding, wellbeing and trauma‑informed behaviour culture (DDSL role)
- Line‑manage and develop senior leaders, teachers and support staff; lead recruitment and CPD
- Track and improve pupil academic, social, emotional and holistic outcomes
- Work closely with families, external agencies and local partners to maximise pupil progress
- Oversee day‑to‑day operations, staffing, transitions and site safety
- Support budget planning, resource deployment and statutory compliance
What We’re Looking For
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with proven senior leadership experience in a SEND or inclusive school
- Strong track record of improving outcomes for pupils with SEND
- Clear understanding of SEND frameworks, EHCP processes, safeguarding, behaviour and attendance guidance
- Experience leading safeguarding practice and effective multi‑agency working
- Expertise in therapeutic approaches, behaviour support and communication systems
- Ability to inspire, motivate and develop staff teams
- Strong operational, organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Confident working in partnership with parents/carers, communities and external agencies
- NPQH (or equivalent) or willingness to undertake further leadership training
- Compassionate, resilient, child‑centred leader with high expectations and a commitment to inclusion
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