This is a unique opportunity for an experienced, talented, and inspirational senior leader who is dedicated to working with children and young people with SEND to join a thriving and successful Special Multi Academy Trust, the largest in Oxfordshire. The Trust is continuing to grow, with two free special schools in the pre-opening stage, and we are now looking for a Consultant Head Teacher to join us in this next stage of our development.

Orion Academy currently offers places to 74 students, and the roll of the school will rise steadily over the next two years to cater for 108 students, aged from 10 to 18 years.  Students attend from throughout the county, and transfer from our SEND feeder school, Northern House Academy, and from mainstream primary and secondary schools. Our facilities offer a wide range of exciting curriculum and vocational opportunities to learners, and a fantastic working environment.  

All students who attend Orion Academy have an Education, Health and Care Plan, which describes their special needs. The Academy provides education for students with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs and Cognition and Learning Needs.

Students are taught through a differentiated and bespoke curriculum designed to enhance their personal and social development and academic achievement. We have a strong intent to ensure our students leave with the personal characteristics to thrive in their communities. Classes are taught in a way that allows for innovation and creative approaches to teaching and learning. The Academy provides a range of support for our students through our Academy Community Learning Team, which consists of youth workers, therapeutic and pastoral workers.

As our Consultant Executive Head Teacher, you will have the opportunity to drive forward our ambitious plans for school improvement at Orion Academy, transforming the lives of our pupils and adding further impact to our inspiring culture and environment. You will provide strong and committed leadership ensuring a journey of rapid improvement and continuous development. You will equally ensure that curriculum innovation, workforce development and a culture of high expectation continues to evolve to deliver sustainable positive change. 

As the role develops, you will then extend your influence, skills, and expertise as a system leader across other schools within the Trust, working with school leaders to help bring out the best in every student. Our dedicated team is relentlessly committed to having a transformative impact on the lives of our learners, achieving this through a challenging, tailored, wider curriculum, and fostering enjoyment in learning for life.

We’re looking for a Consultant Executive Head Teacher who is passionate about special educational needs and disabilities, has the highest expectations and care for diverse groups of learners, and a capacity to inspire those around them. Naturally, you will be driven by a strong moral purpose to strive for excellence and outstanding outcomes for students with SEND. You will be dedicated to the promotion of the Trust’s vision and values and will use these as your guiding principles in your actions and decision making.

How to Apply 

Interested candidates should complete the online application via the My New Term portal.

In compliance with Safer Recruitment guidelines, CV’s cannot be accepted and you will need to complete an online application form to be considered for this position

• Closing Date: Friday 10 July, 2026 5pm

• Interviews to be held on Wednesday, 15 July 2026

Full details about this role can be found in our candidate information pack.