Head of Department at ØsterbyCentret starting 1 December 2026

Are you passionate about special pedagogy, school management and leadership? Do you have experience with students with cognitive, social and emotional challenges? Do you want to help set the direction for a department that makes a crucial difference for some of the most vulnerable students? Then you might be our new department head.

About ØsterbyCentret

ØsterbyCentret is a special pedagogical offering for students with general and extensive learning difficulties. The department includes students with significant cognitive and physical functional impairments, language difficulties and a need for specially arranged teaching and support. Several students have a very low cognitive level, while some complete compulsory school graduation exams in selected subjects. Common to the students is the need for a specialized, structured and relational effort that supports their academic, social and personal development.

We work with a foundation in the objectives of the Folkeskole Act (Danish compulsory school law) and focus on creating opportunities for participation, development and learning for all students. Our goal is to strengthen the students' competencies so that they can manage their own lives and participate in meaningful communities as much as possible.

ØsterbyCentret consists of 105 students and 55 employees.

Opening hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and include both school and after-school care (SFO). The school day runs between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Teaching and pedagogical activities are carried out in close collaboration between teachers, educators, pedagogical assistants and occupational therapists.

The position

As department head you will be part of Østerbyskolen's management team and will engage in close, equal collaboration with the other department head in the center department. You will play a central role in developing pedagogical efforts that enhance students' well-being and learning.

Your primary tasks will be

To have daily staff responsibility for the center department in collaboration with the other department head.

To strengthen cross-professional collaboration across the organization.

To ensure a close and trustful collaboration with parents.

To translate the school's mission, vision and values into practice.

Who are you?

At Østerbyskolen we work in an appreciative manner and incorporate the 24 character strengths into our practice. We are seeking a leader who has the following top strengths: collaboration, leadership, curiosity, presence and courage.

We emphasize that you

are a trained teacher or educator with experience in the school setting

have leadership experience

have completed or are pursuing a diploma in leadership

have personal presence and strong communication skills

are a strong team player

have high special pedagogical expertise and continuing education in special pedagogy and are passionate about developing the field

It is important for us that you can create trust and motivation among staff with respect for their daily practice. You must also be able to think in terms of the whole and involve relevant partners in the development of the pedagogical practice.

It is important that you, as a visible leader, can set direction and create development in the department. Your development perspective is appreciative and resource-oriented, and you show courage when facing a challenge.

We want a leader who values reflection and development of practice based on relevant data, where you can involve the staff's professional judgement. You take action when necessary and put yourself in the game to benefit the organizational development.

We offer

An important and meaningful leadership position where you have the opportunity to make a difference

Committed and skilled staff who are dedicated to the students' well-being and development

A school with a clear vision and an appreciative approach to learning and leadership

A well-functioning department with many traditions and a strong emphasis on community at all levels

A strong leadership team that collaborates to create the best framework for students and staff

Does this sound like something for you? Then send your application to us!

Additional information

If you want to know more about the job, you are welcome to contact the school principal Mette Kragh at tel. 28 86 17 16. You may also text, and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Link to the school's website: https://osterbyskolen.aula.dk/#nolink

Application deadline is Sunday, October 25, 2026.

First interview is expected to be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, after which it will be assessed whether a second round of interviews should be invited on October 30, 2026.

Expected start date is December 1, 2026 or as soon as possible.

Before you are recommended for employment in the position, references will be obtained.

Salary and employment terms follow the agreement between KL and BUPL/DLF. If you are invited to an interview, you will be informed of the position's salary level.

Upon appointment to the position, a criminal record certificate and a child-safety certificate will be obtained.

Applications are sent online. Remember to attach your application and CV as well as other relevant documents.

Department: Østerbyskolen

Application deadline: 25 October 2026

Location: Nygade 17, 6600, Vejen