Head of Operations - The Vale Federation of Schools
Location: Aylesbury
Overview
The Vale Federation of Special Schools is seeking an exceptional, forward‑thinking Head of Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the strategic and operational functions that underpin our mission to deliver an outstanding education for every pupil.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced operational leader to influence, innovate, and drive excellence across finance, estates, IT, compliance, catering, health & safety, and organisational development.
If you are motivated by purpose, thrive in a dynamic environment, and want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND, we would love to hear from you.
Hours: 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year
Salary: Range 9
Location: Multi‑site (Aylesbury area)
Closing date: 08/03/2026
Start Date: As soon as possible
A pivotal leadership role shaping the future of our Federation
About us
The Vale Federation encompasses two Special Schools (one primary, one secondary-aged) in Aylesbury across two locations. We support children and young people who are amongst the most vulnerable in our society. All children within the school have severe or profound learning difficulties and come to us as our specialist provision is required to support their often wide-ranging needs.
Staff across all departments make a difference to the lives of every child who comes to one of our schools. We work together as a team, to ensure we deliver everything we can to make all elements and departments of The Federation the very best that it can be.
At The Vale Federation of Schools, every role is essential in achieving the best outcomes for our pupils. Each team member is deeply passionate about their work and committed to contributing towards our shared goals.
Website: www.thevalefederation.com
About the role
As our Head of Operations, you will:
• Provide strategic leadership across all non teaching operational functions of the Federation
• Lead financial planning, budget management, and long term resource strategy
• Oversee estates and facilities management across multiple sites, ensuring safe, secure, and high quality learning environments
• Drive digital development, cyber security, and IT strategy
• Lead on compliance, risk management, data protection, and statutory responsibilities
• Manage key operational leaders including Premises, Finance & IT, Catering, Marketing, and Health & Safety
• Support the Principal and Heads of School in delivering the Federation's strategic vision
• Lead capital projects, procurement, and value for money initiatives
• Develop and implement fundraising and income generation strategies
• Report to and advise the Governing Board on all operational matters
This is a role for a strategic thinker who can also deliver operational excellence day to day.
About you
We are looking for a leader who brings:
Essential Experience & Skills
• Senior level experience in financial management and operational leadership
• Strong understanding of estates, facilities, and health & safety management
• Knowledge of data protection and safer recruitment
• Experience managing teams and developing staff
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills
• High levels of accuracy, attention to detail, and professional integrity
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines
• Confident use of IT systems, including Microsoft 365
Qualifications
• IOSH Certificate
• GCSEs in English and Maths
• Full UK Driving Licence
Desirable
• Experience in the education sector
• Knowledge of Access Education Finance, Arbor MIS, or Smartlog
• Small Pool Operators Certificate
• Commercial or business acumen
Personal Qualities
• A commitment to the Federation's values and to achieving the best outcomes for pupils
• Integrity, honesty, resilience, and adaptability
• Ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively
• A positive, flexible approach and willingness to work across multiple sites
Other information
Why Join The Vale Federation?
• A supportive, values driven leadership culture
• The opportunity to shape and influence a growing, ambitious Federation
• A varied and rewarding role with significant strategic impact
• Professional development and training opportunities
• A chance to make a real difference in a community centred educational environment
Apply for the role via: https://www.eteach.com/careers/thevalefederation/application-register?vacancyId=1533175&lang=en-GB&src=BucksCCJobs
Visits to the school are warmly welcome. To arrange a visit or to find out more about the role, please contact our school office on the number below.
Tel No: 01296 427221
Email: [email protected]
The Vale Federation of School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children which will be reflected throughout recruitment. All posts are subject to pre-employment checks, satisfactory references will be sought and successful candidates will need to undertake an enhanced DBS check and online health check.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants are required to declare:
• All unspent convictions and conditional cautions
• All spent convictions and adult cautions that are not protected (i.e. that are not filtered out) as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2020).
For further information on filtering please refer to Nacro guidance and the guidance issued by the Ministry of Justice (see, in particular, the section titled ‘Exceptions Order’).
It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. All shortlisted applicants will be required to complete self-disclosure form and return prior to interview.
