Job Title: Head of School
Salary: Up to £60,000 dependent on experience and can be negotiable.
Location: Acorn Park School, Banham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2HU
Hours: Full time, Term Time only
If you really want to make your mark in a rapidly growing business that is committed to improving the lives of young children and young people, we have the role for you!
We're looking for a Head of School to join our team at Acorn Park School in Norwich, a special educational needs school and residential site. Acorn Park educate and support children on the Autistic spectrum and as a Head of Education, you will design the curriculum and grow a nurturing and therapeutic environment to meet a range of needs including social, emotional, mental health, communication and learning difficulties. Your school will be outstanding and a leading light for our young people and their families.
About the School
Acorn Park is a Special Educational Needs (SEN) School and Residential home. We help care for and support young people who have complex needs and specialise in the communication and learning challenges associated with Autism.
The Site is situated within Norfolk’s picturesque and tranquil countryside, close to the town of Banham.
The aim of the site is to provide enough support to unlock each child’s potential so they can live fulfilling and productive lives. We provide the young people with as much freedom as possible in a safe and supervised environment. This is achievable due to the dedication and support from a range of employed professionals who are passionate, reliable and understanding.
About the Group
We are part of Acorn Care and Education and can promise you plenty of challenges, and a rich variety of opportunities to develop your career.
We provide Education and Care across a number of schools and residential homes nationally. Our specialist SEN provision, coupled with our expertise within residential care means we offer thousands of vulnerable children and young people across the UK a holistic, wraparound care, residential and education service, empowering them with everything they need to flourish. It is by no accident that 94% of our homes are rated as Outstanding or Good.
We welcome staff who share our commitment to help children experience better days and better lives. Through ongoing development and training, we ensure our staff are well prepared for their jobs and given every opportunity to extend their skills.
Acorn Care and Education is part of the Outcomes First Group.
About the Role
The Head of School will ensure there is a positive ethos which reflects the school’s commitment to education including the encouragement of all staff and pupils to participate fully all aspects of school life. This essential role ensures that the children are taught curriculum which is relevant to the abilities and needs of the children in an effective learning environment full of good relationships and equal opportunities.
In addition to managing the teaching team, the Head of School will also work collaboratively with the care managers to ensure seamless transitions between care and education.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for an individual who is educated to degree level or equivalent with Qualified Teacher Status. Experience of working with and managing children with autism and sometimes challenging behaviour is essential.
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 become an ambassador for Acorn Care and Education, as the role will include working in partnership with parents, local authorities and other stakeholders.
No two days at Acorn Park are the same, so we are looking for a Head of School who has a flexible working approach and can use their initiative. The ideal candidate will enjoy working with young people in a calm demeanour, and focuses on the positive outcomes of our young people.
In return for your experience and commitment we offer outstanding career opportunities, plus access to a network of great leaders within our Group.
Essential Criteria
- A degree or degree level equivalent qualification
- Qualified Teacher Status
- Experience of working with children with learning disabilities
- Experience and knowledge of children and young people on the Austisic spectrum
- Current full driving licence
- A commitment to promoting the safe guarding and well-being of children and young people
- Experience of Leadership and management across a whole school setting
- Extensive experience of curriculum design, implementation and quality assurance processes
Why work for us
- Social activities
- "Your Wellbeing Matters"
- Employee Rewards Hub
- Pension
- Free School meals on site
- No two days are ever the same
- Be part of a fantastic team who work hard together and support each other
- Opportunity to enrich the lives of young people and make a positive difference
- Continuous professional development and training for a clear career path
This position is due to commence ideally in September or after the October half Term, subject to pre-employment checks.
Applications are invited online though the Acorn Care and Education website www.acorncare.co.uk. If you have any further questions regarding how to apply please contact 01204 558055 or email recruitment@acorncare.co.uk
Acorn care and Education are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to fully Enhanced DBS. We expect all our employees and volunteers to share this commitment and strive to achieve the best outcome possible for everybody in our care. A full application form must be completed with all employment dates accurate and gaps in employment accounted for.