At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a vibrant primary school community while implementing educational policies.
- Company: St. Gabriel's RC Primary School, a welcoming and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to nurturing faith, love, and hope.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and shape their future.
- Qualifications: GTCS Registration and Catholic Teaching Certificate required.
The predicted salary is between 76218 - 76218 € per year.
Salary Scale Point 6 (£76,218 per annum)
Days and Hours of Work: Monday - Friday
To start 10th August 2026.
Successful candidates will be recruited to a permanent post if they already have a substantive HT post and/or hold the Standard for Headship (through the SQH or Into Headship programmes). Successful candidates yet to achieve the Standard for Headship will be offered a temporary contract until such time as they successfully complete the now mandatory Into Headship programme, which must be within the nationally agreed timeframe of 30 months from appointment.
St Gabriel’s is situated in Prestonpans town on the south coast of the Firth of Forth, 10 miles east of Edinburgh. St. Gabriel’s is a Roman Catholic, co-educational primary school providing education from Nursery through to Primary 7. The school roll, which includes the nursery is 168. Our Nursery is non-denominational and welcomes children of all faiths. The school offers spacious and well-equipped facilities, including three large Nursery rooms, seven classrooms, a multi-purpose hall with stage, dining hall, library, music/IT/general purpose room, nurture room, and a number of flexible teaching spaces. Outdoors, there are three tarmac playgrounds and a large grass play area to support physical activity and outdoor learning.
We have strong links with St Gabriel’s parish and they help our children develop spiritually building on the school values of Faith, Love and Hope. While we are a Catholic school, we warmly welcome children of other faiths and beliefs, and we are committed to doing our utmost to support and accommodate the needs of all families in our community.
Candidates applying for this post should seek advice on approval procedures for working in a Roman Catholic School. Information can be found on the Scottish Catholic Education Service website.
The role of the Head Teacher is, within the resources available, to conduct the affairs of both Schools to the benefit of the pupils and the communities they serve, through pursuing objectives and implementing policies set by East Lothian Council under the overall direction of the Executive Director, Education and Children's Services.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under 'Job Attachments') for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
The ‘East Lothian Way’ – values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements
- Relevant Qualifications
- GTCS Registration
- Catholic Teaching Certificate
- PVG Membership
This post is considered as a Regulated Role with vulnerable children and/or protected adults, as specified in the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020. All preferred candidates for posts carrying out regulated work with these groups will be required to become a PVG Scheme member, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if they are already a member, prior to any formal offer of employment being made by East Lothian Council. Please note: PVG member’s records are constantly updated with any new vetting information that arises. Any information that is disclosed on a PVG membership or update check, if relevant to the post being applied for, will be discussed with the applicant and investigated prior to any formal offer being made.
Please note: If you have spent more than 3 months working or living out with the UK in the last 5 years then you will be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Additional Information
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/teachinginfo
Please Note - Pay arrangements for those starting after 1st day of school session In accordance with Teachers Conditions of Service (SNCT - Appendix 2.19), Teachers who commence employment with East Lothian Council after the first day of the school session will have their salary for the remainder of the school salary year (which runs from 1 August to 31 July each year), recalculated to reflect how teachers accrue leave and pay. In these circumstances, a calculation will be carried out upon commencement of employment and leave and pay will be adjusted. Further information will be provided to the successful candidate should this be applicable.
East Lothian Council Schools: Further details on all East Lothian Council Primary and Secondary Schools, including individual school websites can be found here: Primary Schools Secondary Schools
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link.
If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on recruitment@eastlothian.gov.uk
Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the on-line application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
Head Teacher - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12679 employer: East Lothian Council
St. Gabriel's RC Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values the development of both staff and students. Located in the picturesque town of Prestonpans, just a short distance from Edinburgh, the school provides ample opportunities for professional growth through programmes like Into Headship, while fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration among its diverse student body. With well-equipped facilities and a commitment to nurturing the spiritual and educational needs of all children, St. Gabriel's is dedicated to creating a meaningful and rewarding experience for its employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Teacher - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12679
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research St. Gabriel's and understand its values, mission, and community. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider info about the school culture and what they’re really looking for in a Head Teacher.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to leadership and educational philosophy. Think about how your experiences align with the ‘East Lothian Way’ and be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Teacher - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12679
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description and person specification thoroughly. This will help us understand what we're looking for and ensure you highlight the right experiences in your application.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Head Teacher role at St. Gabriel's. Use examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to meet the essential criteria.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of the matter. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website. So, make sure to complete the online application form fully. If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help—we're here to support you!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the job description and person specification. Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, especially your GTCS Registration and Catholic Teaching Certificate. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the values of St. Gabriel's.
✨Embrace the 'East Lothian Way'
Familiarise yourself with the behaviours and values expected by East Lothian Council. Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate these values in action. This will show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the community.
✨Engage with the Community
St. Gabriel's has strong links with its parish and community. Think about how you can contribute to this aspect of the school. Be prepared to discuss your ideas on fostering relationships with families and supporting children of all faiths.
✨Prepare for Questions on Leadership
As a Head Teacher, you’ll be expected to lead effectively. Anticipate questions about your leadership style and how you would handle various scenarios. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and showcase your leadership skills.