executive head teacher.

£79,747.00 - £87,651.00 per annum

Huntingdon

Are you an exceptional, resilient, and visionary leader ready to take the helm of a large, specialised academy and drive a clear trajectory of rapid and sustained improvement?

Do you possess the expertise and determination to build upon a strong foundation, leading a dedicated staff team to restore a school's standing to Outstanding?

We are seeking a proactive and committed Head Teacher to join a supportive Multi-Academy Trust and shape the future of a crucial educational provision for pupils with severe learning difficulties. This is a rare and highly rewarding opportunity to make a tangible, long-term difference in the lives of over 200 pupils and their families.

The Opportunity

A significant and exciting opening exists for an ambitious Head Teacher to lead a dedicated area special school in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. The academy provides highly specialised education for over 200 pupils, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) encompassing severe learning difficulties, high-level autism, and, for some, profound and complex medical needs.

Following a recent inspection, the school is poised for transformation. The successful candidate will work in close partnership with the Trust's Director of Education and a committed central support team to embed a culture of excellence and swiftly address all areas requiring improvement in Leadership & Management, Quality of Education, Early Years, and Sixth Form.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide inspirational and strategic leadership to drive rapid and sustained improvements across all areas of the academy.
• Establish a clear vision and strategic plan aimed at restoring the academy's Outstanding status, working closely with the Trust's Director of Education.
• Enhance the quality of education across all key stages, ensuring an ambitious, tailored curriculum meets the complex and diverse needs of all pupils, including those with profound needs and in the Sixth Form.
• Develop and lead an exceptional Senior Leadership Team, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and continuous professional development.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with pupils, staff, parents/carers, the governing body, and external stakeholders.
• Oversee robust and effective financial and operational management in line with Trust policies.

Essential Profile

• Significant, proven experience in successful senior leadership within a specialist educational setting (Special Educational Needs/SEND).
• A track record of driving rapid school improvement with measurable outcomes, ideally following an external inspection.
• Exceptional ability to lead and motivate staff, building a cohesive and resilient team focused on a shared vision.
• A profound understanding of the needs of pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), and Profound and Complex Needs.
• High levels of resilience, determination, and energy, ready to commit to a demanding yet deeply rewarding challenge.
• The ability to align fully with the strategic vision and core values of the Trust.

Key Details & Benefits

• Salary: £79,747.00 - £87,651.00 Annually (Actual)
• Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
• Start Date: As soon as contractually available
• Closing Date for Applications: 9:00am, 8th January 2026
• Interview Date(s): W/C 12th January, 2026

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated, specialist support professional ready to make a significant positive impact in a Bury St Edmunds SEN school, please apply immediately with your CV or contact Neeraj at neeraj.kommaravalli@randstad.co.uk for more information.

We are the UK market leader for recruitment in education. We have nearly two decades of experience helping teachers and support staff find temporary and permanent roles in schools, colleges, and nurseries. We partner with over 2,500 schools each week, supporting more than 135,000 children every day across the country, which allows us to find the right match for your skills.