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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a vibrant school community, shaping futures and fostering growth.
- Company: Join the compassionate Active Learning Trust dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee benefits, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Warm, inclusive environment with a focus on staff wellbeing and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and be part of something bigger.
- Qualifications: Experienced leader with a passion for education and community building.
The predicted salary is between 78702 - 91158 £ per year.
Location: Gusford Primary School
Salary: £78,702 – £91,158 (L18–L24)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Closing Date: 18 March 2026
Interviews: 26 & 27 March 2026
We have a fantastic opportunity for a Headteacher to join Gusford Primary School in Ipswich. If you are an experienced Headteacher ready for a new chapter filled with purpose, partnership and possibility, we would love to hear from you. This isn’t just a leadership position. It’s a chance to shape a school community, champion children’s futures, and create a place where every young person feels valued, inspired and supported to succeed.
What We Value in Our Next Headteacher
We are searching for a heart-led leader who truly believes in the power of education to transform lives, someone who understands that children flourish when they feel seen, safe and encouraged, and that staff thrive when trust, kindness and collaboration are part of everyday life. If you are the kind of leader who wants to make a difference and be part of something bigger, you will fit right in. Here, values aren’t statements on a wall; they are the way we show up, every day, for each other and for our children.
Our People-First Philosophy
At Active Learning Trust, everyone is valued in their role, and we make sure that the right people have the right opportunities to find their purpose and progress within our Trust. Guided by our values of open dialogue, bold thinking and supportive teamwork, we put our staff's growth and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do so that they can focus on making a real difference in our schools and our communities.
Why Join Our Trust?
- Belong to a compassionate and inclusive trust that values you and the role you play.
- Join an experienced group of people that are fully dedicated to delivering the best for our children.
- Gain access to our VivUp employee benefit system, Cycle to Work scheme and teacher pensions.
Contact
Visits to experience our wonderful school in action are warmly encouraged. For an informal conversation about this exciting opportunity, please contact Rae Aldous, Director of Primary Education (rae.aldous@activelearningtrust.org) or Duncan Low, Director of Education (duncan.low@activelearningtrust.org).
The Active Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. We expect all staff to actively share this commitment. All adults working in our Trust in whatever capacity will be part of a thorough safer recruitment process. All appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks including the taking of satisfactory references and enhanced criminal record clearance in line with the need to create and maintain a safe culture.
The Active Learning Trust reserves the right to interview and appoint prior to the advert closing date. With this in mind, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
To ensure we recruit and retain the best talent, all new employees recruited to the Active Learning Trust (leadership, teaching and support staff) will be subject to a 6 months’ probation period at the start of their employment. This policy aims to assess new employees' alignment with our culture, teaching standards, and student needs. It is designed to foster success; with regular evaluations and support mechanisms in place, helping us to identify and nurture talent.
We value diversity and welcome applications from all, including those with protected characteristics under the Equality Act. Flexible working will be considered for all roles deemed suitable.
Locations
Primary Headteacher in Ipswich, Suffolk employer: Active Learning Trust
Contact Detail:
Active Learning Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Primary Headteacher in Ipswich, Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to visit Gusford Primary School. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you understand the community and its needs better.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare your vision! Think about how you can shape the school community and champion children's futures. Be ready to share specific ideas on how you would create a supportive environment for both students and staff.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current staff! Reach out to teachers or staff members at the school to get insights into their experiences. This can give you valuable information to discuss during your interview and show that you value collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and shows your commitment to joining our Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Primary Headteacher in Ipswich, Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education shine through. We want to see how much you care about shaping young minds and creating a supportive environment for both students and staff.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your true self in your application. We value heart-led leaders who are genuine and relatable. Share your personal experiences and what drives you to make a difference in the school community.
Highlight Your Values: Make sure to align your application with our values of trust, kindness, and collaboration. We’re looking for someone who embodies these principles and can foster a positive culture within the school.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Active Learning Trust
✨Know Your Values
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your own values and how they align with those of Gusford Primary School. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles, especially in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to articulate your leadership philosophy and how it translates into practice. Think about times when you've successfully led a team or initiative, focusing on collaboration, trust, and kindness. This will help you connect with the school's people-first philosophy.
✨Engage with the Community
Research Gusford Primary School and its community. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with parents, staff, and local organisations to create partnerships that benefit the students. Showing that you understand the importance of community involvement will set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in the school’s culture and future direction. Inquire about their current initiatives or challenges, and express your eagerness to contribute to their mission of championing children's futures.