Headteacher Primary - DGA13128

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 Kirkcowan and Wigtown 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. Both schools have a nursery setting which is led by a Nursery Manager. Kirkcowan and Wigtown lie at the heart of the Machars in South West Scotland, surrounded by sweeping countryside, rich history, and close‑knit rural communities. This corner of the region is known for its gentle landscapes, farmland, woodlands, and easy access to the beautiful coastlines that shape the character of the Machars peninsula.

Kirkcowan offers a peaceful village setting with strong community spirit, set amid quiet country lanes, riverside walks, and open green spaces ideal for family life and outdoor exploration. Nearby Wigtown, Scotland’s National Book Town, brings a lively cultural identity with bookshops, festivals, and an active community hub that draws people together throughout the year. Together, these communities create a welcoming environment where natural beauty, tradition, and quality of life come together in a uniquely South West Scotland setting.

Applicants who are seeking to find out more about the schools and their unique context, or arrange a visit, should contact the link Quality Improvement Officer, David Maxwell – David.Maxwell@dumgal.gov.uk. Initial interview for this post is scheduled for Tuesday 28 April 2026.

Requirements: 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), Clerwood House, 96 Clermiston Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6UT and be able to demonstrate that they have, through both experience and professional development, met the criteria in the Standard for Headship.

This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. 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.

Required Information: 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. 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.