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- Tasks: Lead and inspire learning across Dalry and Kells Primary Schools.
- Company: Join Dumfries and Galloway Council, a community-focused organisation committed to education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a relocation package, health support, discounts, and a Cycle-to-Work scheme.
- Other info: Attend a virtual info session to learn more about the schools.
- Why this job: Shape educational experiences in a vibrant rural community with high aspirations for all students.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in primary education and GTCS registration required.
The predicted salary is between 59000 - 77000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a visionary leader with a passion for learning who will, along with a management team, lead learning across the partnership of Dalry and Kells (New Galloway) Primary Schools. This post offers an exciting opportunity to shape educational provision within a dynamic school community that has high aspirations for all.
All schools are located in the Glenkens area of Dumfries and Galloway, a vibrant rural community comprising New Galloway, St John's Town of Dalry, Balmaclellan, and Carsphairn. The area is accessible by car from Castle Douglas, Dumfries, and Ayr, and features good facilities, strong communities, and diverse local employment sectors including agriculture, forestry, renewable energy, tourism, and cultural heritage.
Dalry Primary also has a Nursery managed by a Nursery Manager. An essential aspect of this role is to foster an ethos and culture that demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity. The schools are part of Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Applicants are encouraged to attend a virtual information session about the schools; details and registration are available here: https://forms.office.com/e/zkW0Wt4zU0.
A relocation package of up to £5000 may be available for successful candidates (permanent positions only). Please refer to the attached guidance for further details.
Dumfries and Galloway's approach to education combines traditional values with innovative 21st-century practices, focusing on staff development, improving learning and teaching, raising attainment, and fostering strong leadership at all levels.
Applicants should have proven leadership experience in primary education, a commitment to high standards, and be fully registered with the General Teaching Council of Scotland (GTCS). They must demonstrate, through experience and professional development, that they meet the criteria in the Standard for Headship.
This position is considered regulated work with vulnerable children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Preferred candidates will be required to join or update their PVG scheme prior to employment.
Required Information
Applicants must provide ONE completed reference along with their application, which will be read in conjunction with the application form. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the reference is submitted before the closing date to: EducationPeopleTeam@dumgal.gov.uk.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package supporting health and wellbeing, including discounts via our Vivup platform, local business discounts, Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support, and wellbeing guidance.
Dumfries and Galloway Council is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups and those with diverse perspectives.
For further information or an informal discussion, please contact Kenny Pullen, Schools' Manager - People, at kenneth.pullen@dumgal.gov.uk.
Contact Detail:
Dumfries and Galloway Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher Primary - DGA12013
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ethos and values of Dumfries and Galloway Council. Understanding their commitment to inclusion and diversity will help you align your vision for education with theirs, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Attend the virtual information session about the schools. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, gain insights into the school culture, and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position during your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members from Dalry and Kells Primary Schools. They can provide valuable insights into the leadership style and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in detail, particularly those that highlight your commitment to high standards and professional development. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire others in a primary education setting.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher Primary - DGA12013
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Headteacher position. Understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the ethos of the schools in the Dalry and Kells Primary Partnership.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership experience in primary education. Emphasise any relevant achievements and how they align with the values and goals of Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for learning and commitment to inclusion and diversity. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description.
Prepare Your Reference: Ensure you have a completed reference ready to submit with your application. Choose someone who can speak to your leadership abilities and educational philosophy, and remind them to send it before the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dumfries and Galloway Council
✨Show Your Vision for Education
As a Headteacher, it's crucial to articulate your vision for learning and how you plan to implement it across the partnership of schools. Be prepared to discuss innovative practices and how they align with the values of Dumfries and Galloway Council.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Highlight your proven leadership experience in primary education during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, improved teaching standards, and fostered an inclusive environment in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
Given the importance of inclusion and diversity in this role, be ready to discuss your strategies for creating an inclusive school culture. Provide examples of how you've supported diverse student needs and engaged with the community.
✨Prepare Questions for the Panel
Engage with the interview panel by preparing thoughtful questions about the schools and their future direction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your educational philosophy.