Project Manager (SEND School Commissioning & Development)

Project Manager (SEND School Commissioning & Development) Competitive salary | Fixed term | Ipswich An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly organised Project Manager to support the commissioning and development of a new Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND) school. You will lead the project from early planning through to operational mobilisation, ensuring the school opens safely, compliantly and fully prepared for learners. This is a key role for a senior professional with proven experience in education, SEND, children’s services, or complex public sector project delivery. Reporting to the Vice Principal (Pastoral), you will coordinate multiple workstreams including design, planning, regulatory submissions, risk management and pre-opening readiness. You will work closely with contractors, Local Authorities and internal stakeholders to ensure effective delivery across all phases of the project. You will develop and maintain detailed project plans, budgets, timelines, risk logs and progress reports, ensuring compliance with the SEND Code of Practice, safeguarding requirements and Ofsted expectations. The role also includes supporting the development of operational systems, staffing models, policies, recruitment and induction activity ahead of opening. The successful candidate will bring strong project management skills, excellent communication and the ability to work confidently with senior stakeholders and multi-agency partners. A commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice is essential. You will be resilient, proactive and solutions-focused, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to tight deadlines while maintaining high standards. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to enhanced DBS clearance and satisfactory references. Why join us? This is a genuinely unique opportunity to shape a new SEND school and directly influence the quality of provision for c