At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Key Stage 1 and enhance English teaching across our vibrant school community.
- Company: St Mary’s Catholic Infant School, a nurturing environment in Croydon.
- Benefits: Supportive team, professional development, and a strong Catholic ethos.
- Other info: Join us from September 2026 and make a real difference!
- Why this job: Shape young minds and inspire a love for learning in a welcoming community.
- Qualifications: Outstanding teaching skills and experience in leading English education.
The predicted salary is between 45226 - 49084 € per year.
St Mary’s Catholic Infant School, located in the heart of Croydon, is seeking to appoint an inspirational, dedicated and faith-filled Key Stage 1 Leader with responsibility for English to join our leadership team from September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding teacher and middle leader to help shape the future of our school and contribute to our strong Catholic ethos.
We are a two-form entry school with an on-site nursery, conveniently located just a short walk from mainline train stations, trams, and bus routes. This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic professional to contribute to a school that is committed to providing exceptional education, setting high expectations and raising standards for young children. Our school is a welcoming and vibrant Catholic community where the Gospel values of Love, Respect, Peace and Faith underpin everything we do.
As part of the family of schools within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark, we are committed to nurturing the spiritual, moral and academic development of every child. The successful candidate will play a key role in leading Key Stage 1 and driving excellence in English across the school. They will support the strategic development of teaching and learning, promote high standards of achievement and contribute fully to the Catholic life and mission of the school.
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
- Is committed to supporting and developing the Catholic ethos of the school
- Has a clear understanding of Catholic education and the mission of schools within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark
- Will contribute to developing the Catholic Life and Mission of the school
- Is an outstanding classroom practitioner with a proven record of impact on teaching and learning
- Has successful experience of leading or supporting English across a phase or school
- Has the vision, leadership skills and determination to drive improvement in Key Stage 1 and English
- Can inspire, support and develop colleagues through strong and compassionate leadership
- Is passionate about developing a love of reading, writing and communication in all pupils
- Is committed to ensuring every child flourishes academically, spiritually and personally
‘Aspire not to have more but to be more’
We Can Offer:
- A strong Catholic ethos where faith is lived out daily
- A supportive and collaborative staff team committed to excellence
- Engaged and enthusiastic pupils who enjoy learning
- A committed governing body and supportive parish community
- Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark family of schools
Safeguarding: St Mary’s Catholic Infant School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Key Stage 1 Leader and Literacy Lead employer: Croydon Council
St. Mary’s Catholic Infant School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where the Catholic ethos is at the heart of everything we do. Located in the vibrant community of Croydon, we provide our staff with opportunities for professional development and leadership growth, alongside a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to excellence in education. Join us in shaping the future of our students while being part of a welcoming community that values faith, respect, and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Key Stage 1 Leader and Literacy Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at St. Mary’s Catholic Infant School on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give us insights into the school culture and what they really value in a Key Stage 1 Leader.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's ethos. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, especially around Catholic education. We want to show that we’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you’ve driven improvement in teaching and learning, particularly in English. We need to demonstrate our impact and how we can inspire others at St. Mary’s.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re keen on being part of our community from the get-go.
We think you need these skills to ace Key Stage 1 Leader and Literacy Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching and learning shine through. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and contributed to their academic and personal growth.
Highlight Your Leadership Experience:As a Key Stage 1 Leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership skills. Talk about any previous roles where you've led teams or initiatives, especially in English or literacy, and how you made a positive impact.
Emphasise Your Commitment to Catholic Values:Since we're a Catholic school, make sure to express your understanding and commitment to our ethos. Share how you've integrated faith and values into your teaching and how you plan to contribute to our community.
Tailor Your Application to Us:Take the time to personalise your application for St Mary’s. Research our school, mention specific programmes or values that resonate with you, and explain why you're excited about joining our team. Don't forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Know Your Catholic Ethos
Make sure you understand the core values of St. Mary’s Catholic Infant School. Familiarise yourself with how the school integrates its Catholic ethos into daily activities and teaching. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this mission during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your past leadership roles, especially in Key Stage 1 or English. Highlight any successful initiatives you've led that improved teaching and learning outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability to drive excellence in the role.
✨Passion for Literacy
Express your enthusiasm for developing a love of reading and writing among young learners. Share innovative strategies you've used to engage pupils in literacy, as this aligns perfectly with the responsibilities of the position.
✨Engage with the Community
Research the local community and the school’s involvement within it. Be prepared to discuss how you can foster relationships with parents and the parish community to enhance the school’s mission and support student development.
