Location of role: Oxfordshire (September 2026-January 2027)

Faringdon, Artemis Academy (January 2027 onwards) 

Be part of something pioneering at Artemis Academy, Faringdon

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 Director of Clinical and 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 far more than a leadership role within a school. It is a rare opportunity to design, implement and evaluate a genuinely integrated therapeutic and educational model from first principles within a growing Trust.

This is one of the few roles nationally that offers the opportunity to design a fully integrated clinical-education model within a Trust wide system from the outset.

As the founding Director of Clinical and Therapeutic Practices, you will take strategic responsibility for establishing supervision structures, ethical oversight, risk management and evaluation of therapeutic impact. You will work in strategic and operational partnership with the Headteacher, jointly shaping culture, decision making and daily practice across the school ensuring that children feel safe, understood and empowered to thrive.

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 uncompromising ambition for every learner.

Many of our pupils may have experienced trauma or disrupted educational journeys, however, placement is determined by the impact of SEMH and/or ASC needs on access to learning. All pupils 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 bold: to create a truly therapeutic learning community where emotional wellbeing, belonging and human connection sit at the heart of everything we do.

As Director of Clinical and Therapeutic Practices, you will:

• Lead the creation of a pioneering whole-school therapeutic model that is trauma-informed, relational and fully integrated into every aspect of provision.

• Work alongside the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to shape the vision, culture and daily practice of a brand new therapeutic special school.

• Establish and lead a high performing multidisciplinary team (e.g. therapy and family support) delivering integrated and impactful provision for children, young people and families.

• Develop and lead robust systems for clinical governance, reflective supervision and workforce development, ensuring safety, quality and consistency across Artemis Academy and the wider Trust.

• Play a central role in shaping a sustainable and nationally recognised model of integrated therapeutic practice.

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has significant experience supporting children and young people with SEMH, ASC and complex trauma needs.

• Brings outstanding clinical and therapeutic expertise alongside a strong understanding of education systems and school leadership.

• Builds authentic, trusting relationships with children, families, colleagues and professionals.

• Is deeply committed to reflective, relational and trauma-informed practice.

• Has the vision, creativity and ambition to help shape something genuinely innovative and transformational.

In return, we offer:

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

• The chance to influence and develop sector-leading therapeutic practice across a growing and ambitious Trust.

• A passionate, 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.

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

How to Apply

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

For the full candidate information pack and application details, please visit: https://mynewterm.com/school/Artemis-Academy/128239915  

• Closing Date for Applications: 17:00 PM, Wednesday 20th May 2026

• Interviews: 3rd and 4th June

Safeguarding and 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.

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