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- Tasks: Inspire and support students as a compassionate Head of Year.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help shape their futures.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a commitment to student wellbeing.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 29238 - 34560 £ per year.
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: SCP21 £29,238 SCP 25 £34,560 (Actual Pro Rata Salary)
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Friday, 10th April 2026
About Us
Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) has a capacity of 1200 in the lower school and also has a developing sixth form provision. The sixth form has enjoyed strong progress in both academic and applied courses and has destinations data that shows NEETs significantly lower than the national picture. All Aldridge schools place enterprise and an entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of their ethos. In addition, DACA has a strong record of promoting cultural capital through its Technology and Creative Arts departments, where competition, visits and visitors are a regular part of student experience and support the development of cultural capital. DACA is very much a community school with a truly comprehensive intake. Sitting above the national average, 33% of its cohort are designated as being in the pupil premium category and DACA works hard to support all students to achieve strong engagement and strong outcomes. With a strong focus on our four key improvement levers around culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction, the DACA team are building towards a consistent provision that supports great progress for all students.
About The Role
Be the Difference at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy Inspire. Support. Lead. Transform. Are you passionate about shaping young lives, supporting families, and driving a culture of excellence? We are looking for a dedicated, dynamic, and compassionate Head of Year to become a cornerstone of our pastoral and academic team. As a Head of Year, you'll be more than a Manager; you will be a mentor, a guide, and a leader. Your influence will stretch across classrooms, corridors, and beyond, helping to shape the future of every student in your care. This is a non-teaching role.
Qualifications Who We're Looking For
- A strong moral purpose.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Commitment to student wellbeing and achievement.
- Ability to lead with empathy and inspire resilience will be central to your success.
This is your opportunity to be part of something powerful to lead with heart, serve with purpose, and help students find their voice and their future. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented demographics.
Benefits
Join the Aldridge Education Family! Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme: Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Your wellbeing matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities: Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Site Parking: No more hunting for parking, we've got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave: Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
- Pension Schemes: Secure your future with access to the Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!
When you click apply you will be taken to our careers page where you can complete your application.
Head of Year employer: Aldridge Education
Contact Detail:
Aldridge Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Year
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can embody the values of DACA. Reflect on your experiences that showcase your commitment to student wellbeing and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've inspired resilience and supported students in the past. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Aldridge Education family.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Year
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and student wellbeing shine through. We want to see how you can inspire and support young lives, so share your experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically for the Head of Year role at DACA. Use keywords from the job description and relate your skills and experiences directly to what we’re looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
Be Authentic: We love authenticity! Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. Share your unique perspective on leadership and how you plan to foster a positive culture within our school community.
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is super important for the Head of Year position. And remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aldridge Education
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to understand the core values and ethos of Darwen Aldridge Community Academy. Familiarise yourself with their focus on enterprise, cultural capital, and student wellbeing. This will help you align your answers with their mission and demonstrate that you're a great fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Year, you'll need to inspire and lead students and staff alike. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or supported students in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and lead with empathy, as these qualities are central to the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and approach to student wellbeing. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them. This shows that you're proactive and ready to tackle the responsibilities head-on.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the school's initiatives for student engagement or how they measure success in their pastoral care. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you valuable insights into the school's culture and expectations.