At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations and strategic development of a vibrant new primary school.
- Company: Avanti Meadows, a community-focused school in Bishop's Stortford.
- Benefits: Professional development, well-being programs, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and inspire young minds in a creative setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in educational leadership and a commitment to student welfare.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead the daily operation and strategic development of Avanti Meadows, based in Bishop’s Stortford. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with the Executive Principal and senior leaders to drive sustained improvement, maintain high aspirations and outcomes, and ensure that every young person benefits from a rich, engaging and well-structured curriculum.
The Head of School will confidently uphold and promote our Trust’s defining ethos, ensuring that its virtues positively shape the life and culture of our schools. The Head of School will inspire colleagues through clarity of vision, professional integrity and an unwavering commitment to the very highest standards. You will shape whole-school practice, contribute meaningfully to long-term strategic development and cultivate a truly inclusive learning community where staff feel supported to excel and pupils are empowered to thrive.
Avanti Meadows is a brand-new primary school in Bishop’s Stortford. Surrounded by fields and new housing estates, the school is a centre for the new community developing in the north of Bishop’s Stortford. The school is rated “good” with “outstanding” in personal development. Avanti Meadows is a non-faith, community school that embraces inclusion and diversity.
Our school is a vibrant, exciting place to be that is open to big ideas and creativity, all with a genuine focus on pupil and staff wellbeing. Our staff are inspired and passionate about their roles, the vision of the school, and providing the most fulfilling learning experience for pupils. Learning is a quest to discover each student’s unique gifts and potential, and to lay the foundation for their lifelong journey of learning.
- To work with the Executive Principal in shaping the vision and direction for the school, setting out very high expectations and with a clear focus on pupil achievement.
- Develop effective professional relationships and good communication, which enable everyone in the school to achieve.
- Maintain a consistent and continuous focus on pupils’ achievement using data, benchmarks and feedback to monitor progress in every child’s learning.
- To prepare and present reports, as required to the Executive Principal, SSC, the Trust, LA officers, parents or outside agencies.
Avanti exists to help each person become a well-rounded human being through intellectual, moral and spiritual growth, and so make the world a better place. You will be working in a fantastic environment, with:
- Great opportunities for professional development
- Teacher pension scheme (subject to eligibility)
- O2 discounts, Specsavers corporate eye test vouchers
- Eligible for NUS Card and CSSC membership
- Well-being programs (retreats, yoga, wellness apps)
- Cycle-to-work Scheme
- Qualified teacher status, relevant recent professional development
- Successful experience of developing and implementing effective programmes for the professional development of staff
- The ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines by prioritising and using time effectively
- The ability to lead and motivate staff and to successfully bring about and manage change
- A strong commitment to the safeguarding and welfare of all students, supported by an excellent understanding of safeguarding procedures
Avanti Schools Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates are required to have an Enhanced DBS check unless internally appointed and still within the cycle of DBS re-checks. Any appointment subsequently made will be subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and other pre-employment checks.
Diversity and Inclusion: We want to make sure we are attracting the widest possible range of people and ensure that they are accepted, understood and treated equally when they work here. This means we will work hard to understand that each employee is unique and ensuring that individuals or groups are not treated differently or less favourably on the basis of specific characteristics.
Head of School in England employer: Avanti
Avanti Meadows is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant community of Bishop's Stortford, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises staff well-being and professional development. As a new primary school, we provide unique opportunities for growth and creativity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact on our students' lives. Join us in shaping a nurturing environment where excellence is pursued with purpose and heart.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around Avanti Meadows. Familiarise yourself with the environment and ethos. This will not only help you feel more comfortable but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current staff! Reach out to teachers or administrators at the school through LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and what they love about working there. This insider info can give you an edge during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario questions! As a Head of School, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership skills. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or implemented change. Be ready to discuss how you'd handle specific challenges at Avanti Meadows.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our official channels. It shows you're serious about joining our community and helps us keep track of all candidates effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School in England
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 mission at Avanti Meadows, so don’t hold back on sharing what inspires you!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Head of School role. We’re looking for someone who can drive improvement and uphold our ethos, so connect your past achievements to our vision.
Be Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application focused and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us understand your qualifications and vision without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our school community there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avanti
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to understand Avanti Meadows' ethos and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to inclusion and diversity, as well as their focus on pupil and staff wellbeing. This will help you align your answers with their vision and demonstrate that you're a great fit for the role.
✨Prepare Your Vision
As a potential Head of School, you'll need to articulate your vision for the school clearly. Think about how you would drive sustained improvement and maintain high aspirations. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would implement to enhance the curriculum and support both staff and students.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Leadership is key in this role, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate staff, manage change, and develop effective professional relationships. Use concrete examples to illustrate your leadership style and its impact on student achievement.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the school and its future. Ask about their current challenges, opportunities for professional development, or how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
