Principal

Deeply rooted in our daily practice is the development of pupils' social, emotional, spiritual and moral values. These are not just ideals but lived experiences woven into every interaction and learning moment, helping our children grow into compassionate, resilient and thoughtful young people.

We are seeking a compassionate and driven leader to shape lives as Principal. You will lead with ambition, shape a future with a knowledge-rich curriculum, empower your team, engage the community and champion inclusion to fulfil every child's unique potential.

Our family of schools includes 24 primaries, 10 secondaries, an all-through school in London's Olympic Park, and a special school in Lincolnshire supporting pupils aged 2-19 with a broad range of special educational needs. As one of only 11 system leaders nationwide, we are recognised for educational excellence, an innovative curriculum, and the ability to drive sustained school improvement at scale. We are committed to ensuring every child has access to an exceptional academic experience enriched by extensive co-curricular opportunities.

From small rural primaries to large urban secondaries, our academies benefit from a collaborative, values-driven community where expertise is shared and best practices are embedded. We broaden the horizons of young people by inspiring students to become their confident, academic best via an education that creates academically gifted, confident, well-rounded young people in the classroom, in the workplace and in their communities.

The education and experiences we offer equip our pupils with leadership skills, team spirit, resilience and confidence to become outstanding citizens. Whatever your role, you will contribute towards creating a rich and exciting learning environment that also offers sporting and cultural enrichment.

We work with outstanding organisations and individuals who share their expertise in supporting the David Ross Foundation's vision to give children better life chances through access to the best education and support we can provide. The David Ross Education Trust is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff. It is our objective to ensure that job applicants and staff are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential. We do not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of any protected characteristics.

The David Ross Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo vetting appropriate to the post, including a social media presence check and Enhanced DBS check. The successful applicant will be expected to adhere to all safeguarding, welfare and health and safety policies and procedures of the Trust. All pre-employment checks are in line with 'Keeping Children Safe in Education' statutory guidance.

Responsibilities

• A proven leader with experience in driving school improvement or sustaining exceptional standards.
• A strategic thinker who balances high aspirations with practical, thoughtful decision-making.
• An inspiring communicator, able to motivate staff, pupils and families with clarity, warmth and vision.
• Deeply committed to safeguarding, equality and inclusive education for all.
• Passionate about your own professional development and the growth of those around you.
• You will also have a strong understanding of current educational priorities and be able to demonstrate how they will shape your vision for the academy's future.

Whether you're an experienced Principal ready for a new challenge or a senior leader taking your next exciting step into headship, we'll be by your side—offering world-class CPD, leadership development and the collective strength of a network of outstanding educators.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: Leadership Scale 11 - 17
• Teachers' Pension Scheme
• Exceptional CPD and leadership development programs
• Health & Wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance Programme
• Exclusive benefits platform: holiday discounts, cinema tickets, dining offers
• Flexible working patterns

About our Trust

We are a network of unique and diverse academies across the country, committed to delivering a world-class, knowledge-rich education that empowers pupils to reach their fullest potential. Spanning North Yorkshire, the East Riding of Yorkshire, North-East Lincolnshire, the East Midlands and London, our network of 36 academies serves over 14,600 pupils and employs 2,300 dedicated staff.