Headteacher Primary - DGA13093

We are seeking to appoint a leader with vision and a passion for learning who will, along with a management team, lead learning across the partnership of Garlieston and Whithorn Primary Schools. This post offers an exciting and unique opportunity to shape educational provision across the cluster into the future within a dynamic school community which has high aspirations for all.

The Headteacher role is non-class committed and is supported by a full time Principal Teacher in each setting. Whithorn also has a nursery setting led by a Nursery Manager. Garlieston and Whithorn sit at the heart of the Machars peninsula, surrounded by beautiful coastline, rich heritage, and welcoming rural communities. The Machars is a scenic peninsula with rolling farmland, woodlands, beaches, and coastal villages. The mild climate and natural beauty make it ideal for family outdoor life, coastal walks, wildlife watching, and small community living.

Garlieston, a historic harbour village, offers a peaceful seaside setting with access to scenic walking routes and beaches. Whithorn provides a strong cultural identity and a vibrant local community. The wider region supports a range of local industries including agriculture, fishing, forestry, and tourism, and offers affordable housing alongside excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. The schools play an active role in local life and are well supported by their local communities.

Applicants who are seeking to find out more about the schools and their unique context, or arrange a visit, should contact the Quality Improvement Officer, David Maxwell by email: David.Maxwell@dumgal.gov.uk.

A significant relocation package of up to £5000 may be available to the successful candidate (Permanent positions only). Please see attached guidance for further information.

Dumfries and Galloway’s approach to Education looks to combine the traditional values, ethos and atmosphere of this unique corner of Scotland with fresh 21st Century thinking. Our authority has been recognised as having a clear focus on building staff skills to improve learning and teaching, raise attainment and develop strong leadership at all levels.

Applicants will have proven leadership experience in primary education and be committed to very high standards of achievement. Applicants are required to be fully registered in primary education with the General Teaching Council of Scotland (GTCS) and be able to demonstrate that they have, through both experience and professional development, met the criteria in the Standard for Headship.

As part of the recruitment and selection process we ask that you provide ONE completed reference alongside your application form and will be read in conjunction with your application form.

This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. From 28 February 2011, preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG scheme update check prior to formal offer of employment being made by Dumfries and Galloway Council. Applicants who have been resident outside the UK within the last 5 years, if offered a position, in addition to a Disclosure Scotland Check, will be required to provide a completed police record check from the police authority in the country or countries in which they were resident.

Please note that it is your responsibility to gather a reference and forward the completed document to the relevant contact within the School. The reference should be submitted prior to the closing date. The reference for this vacancy should be emailed to: EducationPeopleTeam@dumgal.gov.uk.

With an exciting benefits package, working for Dumfries and Galloway Council supports you to invest in your own health and wellbeing. Employees have access to our bespoke Vivup platform with over 800 discounts on everyday essentials from top UK retailers, restaurants, utility providers and more. Employees also get access to membership of Scottish Teachers’ Pension Scheme, exclusive discounts from local businesses, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support from My Money Matters, and guidance from our trained Wellbeing Champions.

Here at Dumfries and Galloway Council we are committed to equality, diversity and equal opportunity with our values, which include treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, driving us to tackle inequality. We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation.

For any queries about the recruitment process, please contact Kenny Pullen, Schools’ Manager - People at kenneth.pullen@dumgal.gov.uk.