Deputy Headteacher

Bayleaf Care: Amazing Things Are Happening Here

We are looking for a Deputy Headteacher for our new (SEMH) school in Uttoxeter. This will be a Specialist Independent School for pupils aged 7–18 years with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

This a full-time permanent role due to start in April 2026.

Salary: £60,000 to £65,000

About The Manor School

Bayleaf Care is proud to announce the opening of The Manor School, a brand-new, purpose-built specialist school for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Opening in April 2026, The Manor School will provide education for up to 76 pupils aged 7–18 years, combining therapeutic care with high-quality, individualised education.

The school will begin with a small cohort of around 25 students, primarily young people already living within Bayleaf's children's homes; before growing to full capacity in September 2026.

Our curriculum will be broad, balanced, and creative, using recognised frameworks such as Oak National Academy, EQUALS, ASDAN, White Rose Maths, and AQA, and underpinned by a trauma-informed, relational approach.

The Role

As the founding Deputy Headteacher, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the identity, ethos, and success of The Manor School from day one. You will assist the Headteacher with….

· Lead the launch, strategic, and operational development of the new SEMH provision

· Recruit, inspire, and manage a passionate, skilled, and dedicated staff team.

· Create a safe, inclusive, aspirational, and values-driven learning culture

· Design and deliver an inclusive, engaging, and aspirational curriculum tailored to SEMH learners

· Embed trauma-informed and therapeutic practice throughout the school

· Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding, quality, and compliance, including Ofsted registration and Independent School Standards

· Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with families, carers, local authorities, and external agencies

· Work closely with Bayleaf's residential and therapeutic teams to ensure continuity of care and education

About You

We're looking for an inspiring, experienced leader who believes in the power of relationships and the potential of every child.

You will have:

· Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

· Significant leadership experience within a specialist or SEMH/alternative provision setting

· A proven record of improving outcomes for young people with complex needs

· Strong understanding of trauma-informed and attachment-aware practice

· Excellent knowledge of Ofsted frameworks and safeguarding

· Outstanding communication and leadership skills

Desirable:

· NPQH (or equivalent leadership qualification)

· Experience in setting up or registering a new school

About Bayleaf Care

Bayleaf Care provides exceptional care and education for children and young people across the UK who have experienced trauma or have additional learning needs.

We use the PACE model (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) to build strong, trusting relationships that form the foundation for learning and personal growth.

Bayleaf currently operates:

· 5 specialist children's homes (2 with on-site schools)

· 2 education hubs in Burton-on-Trent

· 2 leaving care services opening in 2026

· 3 adult transition homes (CQC registered)

Each home has its own therapist, and all staff receive training in trauma-informed practice.

What We Offer

· A competitive salary of up to £65,000

· The chance to design and open a brand-new specialist school

· A strong, supportive leadership team within a growing organisation

· Ongoing CPD and leadership coaching

· Access to clinical and therapeutic expertise

· A genuine opportunity to change lives every day

How to Apply

If you would like an initial, confidential conversation with our Education Directors, please contact:

Greg – or

For more information about Bayleaf Care and our current education and care settings,

visit:

Bayleaf Care – Amazing Things Are Happening Here.

Join us in building something truly special.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £60,000.00-£65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Free parking
• Gym membership
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance

Experience:

• leadership in a special needs school or provision: 1 year (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Qualified Teacher Status (required)

Work Location: In person