Headteacher

Blackmarston School is a well-established and much-loved school in Hereford, serving around 100 children aged 2 to 11 with a range of complex learning needs, including PMLD, SLD and autism. The school is built on a foundation of strong relationships, inclusive practice, and a commitment to helping every child thrive. It is a wonderful place where there is a genuine, friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The school is now looking for a visionary leader as its new Headteacher, who will inspire and lead it into the next phase of its development.

The school has fantastic facilities, including extensive grounds which provide incredible learning opportunities. The wonderful staff are caring, and together make a strong, dedicated team where every child and young person is treated with the proper respect to ensure that their rights, needs and aspirations, personal preferences and pathways remain central to the school's organisation.

Blackmarston is on a journey of transformation. Following an Ofsted inspection in June 2023, the school was judged to have serious weaknesses, prompting a period of reflection and renewal, resulting in it joining Accordia Trust in March 2025. Accordia Trust is a growing Multi-Academy Trust of 3 special schools, all in the Hereford area. The recruitment of the headteacher post is an important appointment in preparation for further schools joining in the near future as the right candidate will also be working within the Executive Leadership Team to fulfil the future vision for the Trust as well as the school.

This is a fantastic opportunity to build on the early progress made, lead curriculum development, inspire excellence across the school and to shape the future of a school that is deeply committed to its pupils and community. This will require a clear educational vision, excellent interpersonal skills, and a deep commitment to building relationships across the entire school community.

Candidates should be able to demonstrate recent, successful, and sustained impact as a senior leader. You will have a positive attitude which will inspire, enthuse and motivate pupils, staff and the wider school community. You must be confident, approachable and have the skills to work collaboratively, build effective teams and also to be a present and visible leader who leads by example.

To find out more about this exceptional opportunity please visit or contact Martin Blair at Hays Leadership for a confidential discussion, to arrange a visit to the school or to discuss making an application.

Martin Blair

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Closing date - 8am on Monday 2 nd February

Interviews - w/c 9 th February

Blackmarston School and Accordia Academies Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the DBS