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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to transform the lives of students at Cowes Enterprise College.
- Company: Join Ormiston Academies Trust, dedicated to creating thriving school environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, and extensive professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a community that values diversity and promotes equality.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on students' futures in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience and a passion for improving education outcomes.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.
About this Role
Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more. Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people. We are seeking an exceptional leader who shares our ambition for every child to succeed and is committed to excellence in curriculum, teaching and learning, and pastoral care.
As Head of School, you will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership and operational management of the academy, ensuring that the school runs effectively and that students experience a safe, calm and purposeful environment in which they can learn and thrive. This is a position of influence, where you will shape culture, raise aspirations, and make a lasting impact. Beyond your school, your vision will contribute to the wider success of the Trust and its reputation within the sector.
We value your expertise, experience, and passion to inspire excellence and deliver success for every student and every member of staff. You’ll work closely with the Executive Principal to lead the implementation of the academy's improvement priorities, with a particular focus on the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, attendance and safeguarding. As Head of School you will ensure that systems and routines across the academy are applied consistently, and that staff are supported to deliver high-quality teaching and care for students.
We are looking for someone with successful senior leadership experience within a school, alternative provision, or specialist setting and a demonstrable record of improving teaching and learning outcomes. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping provision, strengthening practice and ensuring consistently strong outcomes for students.
About our Academy
Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy is based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The school is an 11-19 co-educational academy with 1,164 students, including 185 students in the sixth form. This is a time of great innovation and forward thinking at Cowes Enterprise College. We aim to 'educate for life' here and students have an appetite for success, parents are supportive and proud of our work, and staff are committed to unleashing potential. Our broad, balanced and aspirational curriculum, combined with strong pastoral care means that we can support our students to become successful and responsible 21st century citizens and lifelong learners.
Why work for Ormiston?
Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach — they are our greatest asset. We exist to provide the best learning opportunities everyday, in every school for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact.
If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, your work will have purpose and meaning.
- The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before - being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive.
- Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children - a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve.
- Being part of a team and community where you belong - being part of a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities.
- A supportive environment to grow your career - an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits.
Benefits that care for you
We value your hard work and dedication, and we're committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools. When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role.
You will have access to an attractive benefits package including:
- School Teachers Pay and Conditions
- Teachers' Pension Scheme
- Access to health and well‑being programmes, including counselling service.
- Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform.
- Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Automatic pay progression.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- And much more as part of a leading multi-academy trust.
For further information about this exciting leadership opportunity please contact our recruitment partner, Chris Gartner from ThinkLeadership, on 07454 679 918 or via email to chris.gartner@thinkrecruitment.co.uk. More information about this post and the role of a Head of School within Ormiston is available in the accompanying information pack.
To apply, please submit your completed application by 9am on Wednesday 6 May. Interviews will take place on Tuesday 12 May. Please note that we reserve the right to close the vacancy early or appoint before the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.
Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered. All successful appointments will be subject to suitability checks in accordance with KCSIE, including identity, Right to Work, qualifications, online searches, prohibition check, two references and enhanced DBS check including Children’s Barred List.
Head of School at Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy in Isle of Wight employer: Cowes Enterprise College An Ormiston Academy
Contact Detail:
Cowes Enterprise College An Ormiston Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School at Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy in Isle of Wight
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, attend local events, and engage with online communities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities at Cowes Enterprise College or similar schools.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the academy's values and recent achievements. Tailor your responses to show how your leadership style aligns with their mission of creating a thriving environment for every child.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for education during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've improved teaching and learning outcomes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to excellence and inspire confidence in your abilities.
✨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, you’ll find all the latest updates and opportunities right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School at Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy in Isle of Wight
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in students' lives and how you plan to inspire excellence in your role.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in senior leadership roles. We’re looking for someone who has a proven track record of improving teaching and learning outcomes, so be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and vision for the school.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Cowes Enterprise College.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cowes Enterprise College An Ormiston Academy
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your vision for the school. Think about how you can contribute to the academy's mission of ensuring every child thrives. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully implemented similar visions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your senior leadership experience in detail. Highlight instances where you've improved teaching and learning outcomes, managed staff effectively, and created a positive school culture. Use data or anecdotes to back up your claims and demonstrate your impact.
✨Understand the Community
Research Cowes Enterprise College and its community. Familiarise yourself with the local context, challenges, and opportunities. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in the lives of students and their families.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the academy aligns with your values. Consider asking about their approach to pastoral care, professional development opportunities, or how they support staff in achieving excellence.