Kingfisher Learning Trust is looking for a talented, values‑driven Headteacher to lead Oakdale School through its next phase of development. This is an exciting opportunity for an inspirational leader with a strong moral purpose, a commitment to inclusion, and a passion for securing the very best outcomes for children with special educational needs.

Oakdale School is part of Kingfisher Learning Trust, a specialist MAT with a strong reputation for excellence, collaboration and innovation. We are looking for a Headteacher who will champion our vision for endless possibilities, uphold our ethos and lead with aspiration, integrity and respect.

About the Role

The Headteacher will:

• Provide strong, strategic leadership, ensuring the Trust’s vision and values are embedded across the school.
• Lead organisational change and drive continuous improvement, securing high‑quality teaching, learning and outcomes for all pupils.
• Build and sustain a professional learning community focused on creativity, personalisation and high expectations.
• Ensure statutory responsibilities are met, including safeguarding, curriculum, assessment and the wider regulatory framework.
• Lead quality assurance processes, including preparation for inspection, reporting to the Local Governing Board and Trust Board, and evaluating school performance.
• Develop effective partnerships with parents, carers, governors, staff, external agencies and the wider Trust community. 
• Promote a culture of inclusion, equality and diversity, ensuring every pupil receives their statutory rights and personalised support.
• Lead and develop staff through robust appraisal underpinned by action-research, coaching and performance management, fostering a collaborative leadership model.
• Manage delegated resources effectively to achieve best value and secure excellent outcomes.

 About You

We are looking for a leader who can demonstrate:

• Successful experience of leading strategic organisational change, ideally within a special school context.
• A proven commitment to improving the quality of children’s learning and leading by example.
• Strong knowledge of effective teaching, learning and innovative curriculum design for pupils with SEND.
• Experience of monitoring, challenging and supporting staff to secure excellent practice.
• The ability to build excellent relationships with stakeholders including parents, governors, staff and external partners.
• Experience of system leadership and contributing to wider school improvement beyond one setting.
• A thorough understanding of national and local educational issues, including academies and Trust‑based governance.
• Emotional intelligence, resilience and a commitment to personal leadership development.
• The ability to communicate confidently with a range of audiences and act as an ambassador for the Trust.

 Essential qualifications include:

• Qualified Teacher Status
• Degree‑level qualification
• Evidence of ongoing professional and leadership development
• NPQH

 Why join Kingfisher Learning Trust?

• A Trust founded on respect for everyone within the Trust family by encouraging and celebrating diversity.
• A strong, supportive and values‑led Trust with a commitment to excellence in SEND as a beacon of inclusive practice.
• Research and reflective practice that ensures an ever-evolving innovative provision across each school that gives everyone a voice and an opportunity to celebrate success.
• A collaborative leadership and supportive culture with opportunities for system leadership and professional growth.
• A dedicated, skilled and passionate staff team.
• A genuine commitment to staff wellbeing and development.

Visits to the school are welcome and can be arranged by contacting the Trust's Director of People and Organisational Development: adele.savage@kl-trust.org