At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to achieve excellence in education.
- Company: Join Clarendon Academy, part of Acorn Education Trust, in Trowbridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and shape future leaders.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for teaching and learning.
- Other info: Visit our school to see the vibrant community and culture.
The predicted salary is between 95700 - 106000 £ per year.
Clarendon Academy and Acorn Education Trust are seeking to appoint an inspirational, driven and compassionate Headteacher, with effect from September 2026, for this inclusive, thriving and hardworking Secondary School and Sixth Form. Located in the bustling town of Trowbridge, Wiltshire, our school prides itself on being a centre of respect, determination and excellence where young, enthusiastic children enter in Year 7 and leave us at the end of Year 13 as fully rounded young adults prepared for their next steps. Our staff aim for every lesson, every day, to be exceptional and work tirelessly to ensure students feel that they belong and can achieve their dreams. In June 2023 we retained our ‘Good’ Ofsted rating and were praised for offering a high-quality, well sequenced curriculum with the inspectors commenting that “pupils feel safe and cared for in this welcoming and friendly school.”
This is a fantastic opportunity for an existing senior leader to build on the many established strengths of this vibrant 11-18 co-educational school, leading its dedicated staff towards further enhancement of the school’s offer.
We are looking for someone with:
- The drive, vision and ambition to achieve excellence for all our pupils;
- An excellent understanding of teaching and learning;
- Proven leadership qualities and the ability to challenge, inspire and motivate colleagues;
- A proven record as an imaginative, innovative, resourceful and decisive leader;
- An understanding of the current educational climate;
- A desire to work within the Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) structure.
For information about this role, including a full Job Description and Person Specification, please read our Applicant Information Pack.
Visiting our school
Prospective candidates are highly encouraged to arrange a one-to-one tour with Louise Hamilton (Acorn Education Trust’s Director of Secondary Education) to see what Clarendon Academy has to offer first-hand. Please contact Mrs Angie Snelling, HR & PA to the Director of Secondary Education, on: 01225-785210.
Closing Date: Monday 9th February 2026 at midday
Interview Date: TBC
Safeguarding Statement: Acorn Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in obtaining this post you will be subject to a Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and health screening. We are an equal opportunities employer. As part of our safer recruitment processes, if you are shortlisted for the post, we will carry out a social media account search.
Headteacher in Trowbridge employer: Acorn Education Trust
Contact Detail:
Acorn Education Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher in Trowbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a tour of Clarendon Academy. It’ll give you a feel for the environment and help you tailor your answers to what they value.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for education! When you’re in the interview, share specific examples of how you've inspired students and staff in the past. We want to see that drive and vision you have for excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current staff! If you can, chat with teachers or leaders at the school before your interview. This will not only give you insights but also show your genuine interest in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher in Trowbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for leading a school and making a difference in students' lives. Share specific examples of how you've inspired others in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight your experience and skills that align with what we're looking for in a Headteacher. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background to our school's values and mission.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and focus on communicating your ideas effectively. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the role and our school there. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Education Trust
✨Know Your Vision
As a Headteacher, you need to have a clear vision for the school. Before the interview, think about what excellence in education means to you and how you can inspire both staff and students. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented your vision in previous roles.
✨Understand the School's Culture
Familiarise yourself with Clarendon Academy's ethos and values. Research their recent Ofsted report and be prepared to discuss how you can build on their strengths. Showing that you understand and respect the school's culture will demonstrate your commitment to their community.
✨Prepare for Leadership Questions
Expect questions about your leadership style and how you motivate and challenge staff. Think of concrete examples where you've successfully led a team or implemented change. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's future and the challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you as well.