Be part of something pioneering at Artemis Academy, Faringdon

Location of role: Oxfordshire (September 2026-January 2027) Faringdon, Artemis Academy SN7 8AH (January 2027 onwards) 

The Gallery Trust is proud to offer a rare and career-defining opportunity for an exceptional, visionary and values-driven leader to become the founding Assistant Head Teacher- Therapeutic Practices at Artemis Academy, a brand-new, purpose-built specialist therapeutic day school in Faringdon, Oxfordshire.

Currently in development and opening in January 2027, Artemis Academy has been designed to redefine what outstanding therapeutic education can look like for children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC).

This is a unique opportunity to help create an innovative, sector-leading model of therapeutic and educational practice from the ground up, shaping the future of Artemis Academy.

As the founding Assistant Head Teacher, you will work in close partnership with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to establish a therapeutic culture where relationships, belonging, emotional wellbeing and high aspirations are embedded into every aspect of school life. Together, you will create an environment where children feel safe, understood and empowered to succeed.

Part of The Gallery Trust, a successful and expanding Multi Academy Trust committed to improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND across Oxfordshire, Artemis Academy will be built upon collaboration, reflective practice, innovation and an unwavering belief in every child's potential.

Many of our pupils will have experienced adverse childhood experiences, trauma and disrupted educational journeys, and all will have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Serving pupils aged 7–18, the school will grow to 100 students by its fourth year. Our vision is ambitious: to create a therapeutic learning community where wellbeing, connection and achievement go hand in hand.

As Assistant Head Teacher- Therapeutic Practices, you will:

• Lead the development and implementation of a pioneering therapeutic model that is relational, trauma-informed and embedded across all aspects of school life.

• Work closely with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to shape the vision, culture and strategic direction of Artemis Academy from its inception.

• Establish, lead and develop the Families and Therapies Team, creating an integrated approach that brings together therapeutic support, family engagement and inclusive practice.

• Champion the emotional wellbeing of pupils, families and staff, ensuring therapeutic principles underpin decision-making, policy and practice.

• Develop and embed high-quality systems for reflective practice, supervision, staff development and continuous improvement.

• Build strong and effective partnerships with families, local authorities, health services and other agencies to secure the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

• Contribute to the development of therapeutic practice across The Gallery Trust, helping to shape and influence provision beyond a single school.

• Play a pivotal role in creating a sector-leading specialist provision recognised for innovation, impact and excellence.

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has significant experience working with children and young people with SEMH, autism and complex needs.

• Has a successful track record of leadership within education, social care, therapeutic, clinical or family support services.

• Has substantial experience of working therapeutically with children, young people and families facing complex challenges.

• Understands the importance of relational, trauma-informed and inclusive approaches and can translate these into practice.

• Can establish, lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams and services.

• Builds authentic and effective relationships with children, families, colleagues and external partners.

• Demonstrates strong strategic thinking, emotional intelligence and professional credibility.

• Is committed to reflective practice, continuous improvement and evidence-informed innovation.

• Has the vision, creativity and ambition to help establish a genuinely transformational specialist provision.

In return, we offer:

• The rare opportunity to help design and shape a brand-new therapeutic special school from its very beginning.

• The chance to influence and develop sector-leading therapeutic practice. 

• A passionate and highly committed team united by a shared mission to improve the lives of children and young people.

• A culture that values innovation, collaboration, reflection and professional growth.

• Extensive opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.

• The extraordinary privilege of working with children and young people who inspire us every day.

If you are excited by the opportunity to help create a truly innovative therapeutic school and to influence practice across a forward-thinking Trust, we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply

To arrange an informal, confidential conversation, please contact Laura Dennis, Head Teacher, at l.dennis@thegallerytrust.co.uk. 

To apply please complete an application form via MyNewTerm.

• Application deadline: Sunday 5th July 5pm

• Interviews will be held: Thursday 9th July

Safeguarding & Equal Opportunities

The Gallery Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to rigorous safeguarding checks, including ID verification, qualifications, right to work in the UK, health clearance, and an Enhanced DBS check.

As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and communities.

At The Gallery Trust, inclusion is paramount. We are committed to ensuring that everyone feels welcome, respected, and supported throughout our recruitment process. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or have any additional needs that may require adjustments at any stage of your application or interview, please let us know. We are very happy to talk with you about what would help you feel comfortable and able to perform at your best. This might include providing information in alternative formats, allowing extra time, or making practical adjustments to the process. You can contact our recruitment team in confidence at recruitment@thegallerytrust.co.uk or by calling 01865 557004. We are here to help and would love to hear from you.

Join us at Artemis Academy – and help transform lives through outstanding SEND education.