At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead two village schools, ensuring stability and high standards during a key transition.
- Company: Federation of Middleham and Spennithorne, known for its supportive community and strong relationships.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, strong local authority backing, and a dedicated Governing Board.
- Other info: Opportunity to guide a federation through change with a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while promoting inclusion and diversity.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills, experience in education, and a commitment to safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Federation of Middleham and Spennithorne is a federation of two small village schools with enthusiastic and engaged pupils and dedicated staff. We have been rated Good in our last Ofsted report and aspire to be exemplary in the future. We are now seeking an Interim Executive Headteacher to build on these strong foundations, providing stability and clear leadership during a key period, while sustaining progress and maintaining the high standards and positive reputation of the federation.
A defining feature of the school is its deeply embedded Christian vision: “Fruitful lives, rooted in love, A place to learn, love and grow.” The Executive Headteacher will need to ensure that this is actively lived out through worship, relationships, curriculum, and community work, while also promoting inclusion, respect, and diversity in a multi‑faith society.
Leading a split‑site federation requires effective coordination, communication, and consistency in expectations. The Interim Executive Headteacher will need to ensure that pupils, staff, and parents across both locations experience the same high‑quality provision, while maintaining the unique strengths and context of each setting.
In a small school, staff frequently go above and beyond. The Interim Executive Headteacher must recognise, support, and protect this commitment, ensuring that workload is manageable, wellbeing is prioritised, and all staff feel valued. Staff buy‑in and retention will depend on a leadership style that is inclusive, empathetic, and transparent.
About You
As Interim Executive Headteacher, you will provide strategic, operational and spiritual leadership across both communities. This is a hands‑on role requiring visibility, adaptability and strong organisational and people leadership skills, ensuring consistency, stability and continued progress across both sites. You will be confident in raising standards, leading inclusive practice, and supporting staff to meet the needs of all learners, particularly those with SEND. Just as importantly, you will be a visible and values‑driven leader, strengthening relationships with pupils, staff, families and the wider community.
We can offer you
- A welcoming and supportive federation with strong relationships at its heart.
- A unique opportunity to guide the federation through a key transition, ensuring stability, consistency and continued improvement.
- Strong and consistent support from the Local Authority, the Diocese, a dedicated Governing Board, and a team of experienced, passionate, and committed staff.
- A Governing Body that is actively engaged and supportive, including in navigating sensitive matters and prioritising staff wellbeing.
- A collaborative local network, offering a valuable forum for sharing ideas, challenges, and best practice.
References
When completing your application, please provide two employment referees. One of these must be from your most recent employer.
Safeguarding
We are committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and aim to have a workforce reflecting this diversity. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We have a robust child protection policy and all staff will receive training relevant to their role at induction and throughout employment at the school. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Please note this post is in regulated activity and exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS criminal records and barred list check for work with children. An online search may be undertaken as part of the recruitment process on information available in the public domain. Candidates should disclose anything that may be relevant in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
North Yorkshire Council (NYC) advertise vacancies and process applications on behalf of schools and external organisations (third parties) in North Yorkshire. NYC are not responsible for the recruitment/employment practices of third parties and accept no liability in relation to the vacancy and any subsequent recruitment/employment processes. Further information on how we process your data can be found here.
Interim Executive Headteacher in Leyburn employer: Applefields School
The Federation of Middleham and Spennithorne is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and welcoming environment where strong relationships are at the heart of our community. As an Interim Executive Headteacher, you will have the unique opportunity to lead during a pivotal transition, backed by a dedicated Governing Board and Local Authority support, while prioritising staff wellbeing and fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. Our commitment to professional development and collaboration ensures that you will thrive in your role, making a meaningful impact on the lives of our pupils and the wider community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Executive Headteacher in Leyburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and engage with online communities. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Be visible! If you're applying for the Interim Executive Headteacher role, make sure to show up at school events or community gatherings. This not only demonstrates your commitment but also helps you connect with staff, parents, and pupils, making you a familiar face.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you get the chance to meet with decision-makers, be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their vision. Show them how you can maintain high standards and support staff wellbeing while driving progress.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the federation, helping you prepare for interviews and discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Executive Headteacher in Leyburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how your values align with our Christian vision and commitment to inclusion and diversity.
Be Specific:Use concrete examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to support staff and students. We love seeing how you've made a positive impact in previous roles!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the unique strengths of our federation. Highlight how you can maintain high standards while ensuring stability and progress across both sites.
Check Your References:Don’t forget to include two referees, one being your most recent employer. We value transparency, so ensure they can speak positively about your leadership style and commitment to staff wellbeing.
How to prepare for a job interview at Applefields School
✨Know the Federation Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to research The Federation of Middleham and Spennithorne thoroughly. Understand their values, recent Ofsted report, and community involvement. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to their vision and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach, especially in a split-site environment. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, supported staff wellbeing, and maintained high standards. Highlight your inclusive and empathetic style, as this is crucial for gaining staff buy-in.
✨Emphasise Community Engagement
Since the role involves strengthening relationships with pupils, staff, families, and the wider community, come ready with ideas on how to enhance community ties. Discuss any previous experiences where you’ve successfully engaged with diverse groups and promoted inclusion and respect.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Think about challenges you might face in this role, such as managing workload or addressing SEND needs, and prepare thoughtful responses that reflect your strategic thinking and hands-on approach.
