Chief Executive

Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) is a family of specialist academies supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire. The Trust operates 13 special schools, alongside integrated support services including therapy and nursing, and a central team covering HR, Finance, IT and Estates.

Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) was established under the sponsorship of Orchard Hill College (OHC), a specialist further education provider with a long-standing reputation for excellence in supporting learners with severe, profound, and complex needs. This founding relationship has shaped the Trust's development from the outset, embedding a shared commitment to high-quality provision, specialist expertise, and a deep understanding of how to support some of the most vulnerable young people in the education system.

Since its inception, OHCAT has grown into a significant Multi-Academy Trust serving over 2,000 learners with special educational needs and disabilities across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Berkshire. Pupils present with a wide range of needs, including autism, speech, language and communication difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs, and complex physical and learning disabilities

As both organisations have matured and expanded, governance and leadership arrangements are evolving to reflect their respective scale and ambitions, with a move toward dedicated executive leadership for each, underpinned by a formal partnership agreement that will sustain the collaboration, shared learning, and mutual support that have defined their relationship.

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the CEO will provide clear, values-led leadership, setting strategic direction, ensuring strong outcomes for learners, and maintaining financial and organisational sustainability. The role will lead the development of a new strategy, shape the Trust's operating model and strengthen its external profile through effective partnerships and sector engagement. The incoming OHCAT CEO will lead a Trust that is established, well-supported, and confident in its identity - with a close and valued partner in Orchard Hill College.

This is a pivotal moment. As OHCAT moves forward independently, there is a unique opportunity to sharpen its identity, enhance its influence and position it as a leading voice in SEND and inclusive education.