At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a small, caring primary school and inspire both staff and students.
- Company: Perrymount Primary, a close-knit community in Forest Hill.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional growth, and autonomy in shaping the school's future.
- Other info: Join a school that values emotional literacy and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experienced school leader or proven Deputy Head with a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Headteacher to lead Perrymount Primary School into its next chapter. Being a Headteacher is a massive job. It takes resilience, sharp strategic thinking, and a lot of heart. But at Perrymount, you won't be doing it alone. If you’re an experienced school leader who wants to make a visible, daily difference in a school that feels like a family, we’d love to meet you.
About Perrymount: We are one of the smallest primary schools in Lewisham, and we see that as our superpower. Because of our size, we achieve a genuine sense of belonging and care. Everyone knows everyone here. Based in the heart of Forest Hill, Perrymount is a safe, inclusive space where children from all backgrounds and abilities thrive. Our 'Values-Based Education' approach means teaching the high academic standards you'd expect, right alongside deep empathy, justice, and sensitivity. We don't just prepare children for secondary school; we prepare them for their future place in the world.
Perrymount benefits from a stable, experienced and skilled staff team. Staff demonstrate a high level of commitment to the school community, and they have confidence in teaching quality and classroom practice, with a consistent and effective approach to behaviour management. We’re really proud that we’ve successfully ‘grown our own’ over time, with several ECTs starting at Perrymount and progressing to more senior teaching roles. We’re regularly successful at securing additional external grants as well as non-financial support. As a small school, even in challenging times, we have a full reception class for 2026/27.
What parents and children say about Perrymount: In our May 2026 survey of Perrymount’s parents and carers, 95% of respondents said they’d recommend the school to other families. Parents and carers told us they appreciate the personalised support for emotional regulation, SEND needs and wellbeing and they value the school’s emphasis on emotional literacy, resilience, kindness and confidence alongside academic learning. Most importantly, the voices of children at Perrymount show that we’re doing really well:
- Year 3: “My favourite thing about Perrymount is how caring the teachers are. They help us when we’re stuck.”
- Year 4: “What could we improve? Nothing.”
- Year 6: “This school is perfect.”
What we’re looking for: We’re looking for an established Headteacher or a highly proven Deputy Head or Senior Leader looking for their first headship. We aren't looking for a distant figurehead; we’re looking for a visible leader who rolls up their sleeves and is willing to get stuck in.
You’ll be a great fit if:
- You’re passionate about every child’s learning. Whether it’s a breakthrough in reading for a child who has been struggling, or a quiet student speaking up in assembly, you understand that small wins add up to massive differences. You have the determination to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
- You are an inspirational educator. You have a deep understanding of what an exciting, inclusive curriculum looks like. You build bridges. You know how to connect with parents, empower a dedicated staff team, and champion the diverse, multicultural community we serve.
- You have a 'can-do' attitude. You navigate the ups and downs of school leadership with optimism, emotional intelligence, and a calm head.
- You understand the importance of and have a track record of developing talent. You are committed to developing and supporting staff and nurturing talent.
- You have good financial management skills. You show excellent financial awareness and make prudent, well-considered decisions about the use of resources. You understand the importance of securing the best value from available funding and ensuring that every pound is used effectively to support high-quality provision for pupils and staff, particularly within the constraints of a small school.
What you will get out of this role: We want you to do great things, so we’ll make sure you are supported to do them.
- Being a part of a welcoming community: You’ll lead a school that is genuinely loved by its pupils, staff, and parents.
- Autonomy and support: You’ll have the freedom to shape the vision and future of Perrymount, backed by a supportive and engaged Governing Body. A dedicated School Business Manager and supportive school office team are in place to handle operational and general enquiries, allowing you to focus on leading teaching, learning, and culture.
- Professional growth: Continuous investment in your leadership journey and well-being.
- The Forest Hill factor: Working in a brilliant, creative part of South East London with excellent transport links.
Interested? Please get in touch. We'd love for you to come and see Perrymount in action. To arrange an informal chat or a visit to the school, please contact Sara Gambier, School Business Manager, at s.gambier@perrymount.lewisham.sch.uk or call 020 8699 4522.
Application and Assessment: The full job description and person specification sets out more detail about the role and the experience and skills required. Please apply via the Lewisham Council jobs website or download an application pack from our school website.
Application Closing Date: Tuesday 23rd June at midday. Interview Date: Wednesday 8th July. PLEASE NOTE: CVs will not be accepted. Applications can be emailed to s.gambier@perrymount.lewisham.sch.uk or handed in to the school office for the attention of Sara Gambier, School Business Manager. We look forward to receiving your completed application form. We regret we are only able to contact shortlisted applicants.
Safeguarding & Compliance: Perrymount is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils. We are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Therefore, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) as well as qualifications and reference checks. Original evidence of right to work within the United Kingdom will be required prior to commencement of employment e.g. National Insurance Number, work permits or Indefinite Leave to Remain. We also conduct online safer recruitment screening in line with current statutory guidance.
The school is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and diversity. We have a clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure for the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Headteacher at Perrymount Primary, SE23 employer: Borough of Lewisham
Perrymount Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every staff member is valued and supported. With a strong commitment to professional growth and a collaborative work culture, you will have the autonomy to shape the school's vision while being backed by a dedicated team and a supportive Governing Body. Located in the vibrant Forest Hill area of South East London, Perrymount provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a close-knit community that prioritises emotional literacy and academic excellence.
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We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher at Perrymount Primary, SE23
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