Head of Boarding and Residential Life (Live-in)

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced, reflective and ambitious leader to take on the role of Head of Boarding and Residential Life (Live-in). This is a demanding but deeply rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a lasting and meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people. The role offers a high level of autonomy, balanced with strong support from a collaborative and experienced senior leadership team

This is a key senior leadership position, leading, shaping and continuously developing a highquality residential provision that is both nurturing and aspirational. You will join a committed and reflective team who value collaboration, consistency and shared responsibility, with a strong focus on staff wellbeing and professional development.

Boarding at The Marchant-Holliday is not simply care provision — it is a vital part of our pupils’ development. We believe that some of the most meaningful learning happens beyond the classroom, through relationships, routines, shared experiences and developing independence.

This is an opportunity to take a lead role in shaping and developing the future direction of boarding at the school, with real scope to influence practice, culture and provision. The role requires resilience, consistency and the ability to maintain high standards within a dynamic and evolving residential provision.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead and develop a coherent 24-hour curriculum, integrating care, education and personal development

• Ensure pupils experience a rich programme of activities, trips and outdoor opportunities

• Promote an active, experiential residential lifestyle that supports SEMH needs and wellbeing

• Support pupils’ preparation for adulthood, including independence, social skills and life experiences

• Lead a team to deliver consistent, relational and high-quality care practice

• Oversee the effective use of resources and staffing to ensure a high-quality and sustainable residential provision

This is a live-in leadership role (Monday–Friday) requiring strong visibility, presence and commitment to the lived experience of pupils.

We are looking for someone who:

• Is an experienced residential or pastoral leader

• Has a strong understanding of SEMH and trauma-informed practice

• Can lead both strategically and in practice • Values relationships, consistency and high expectations

• Is deeply committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of children

• Brings a positive, creative and practical approach, with the ability to engage pupils through meaningful, fun and purposeful experiences

• Is able to model a nurturing, relational style, balancing warmth, high expectations and clear boundaries

• Holds a full UK driving licence and ability to safely and confidently drive school vehicles to support residential provision, including trips and off-site activities