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- Tasks: Lead and support teachers in improving school practices and student welfare.
- Company: A vibrant Roman Catholic school focused on community and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership experience, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Full GTCS Registration and strong relationship-building skills required.
- Other info: Temporary maternity cover until October 2026 with potential for secondment.
The predicted salary is between 57360 - 57360 £ per year.
Salary Scale Point 1 (£57,360 per annum). This is a temporary maternity cover until October 2026.
Days of Work: Monday – Friday. To start ASAP. This position provides an exciting opportunity to gain further experience in a leadership role. The successful candidate will support the Head Teacher in operational aspects of day-to-day school life and in School Improvement planning, including working with class teachers to share best practice and progress Improvement Plan priorities. Experience in leading or overseeing Support for Learning interventions is desirable but not essential. Strong ability to build positive relationships with pupils and staff is essential. This position would be suitable for a secondment.
Candidates applying for this post should seek advice on approval procedures for working in a Roman Catholic School. The approval process involves seeking a reference from your own parish priest. Education candidates should seek advice on approval procedures for working in a Roman Catholic School. Information can be found on the Scottish Catholic Education Service website. Internal candidates wishing to apply for the post on a secondment basis should seek permission from their line manager before doing so.
Interviews will be held on Tuesday 24 February 2026.
Duties subject to the policies of the school and the Council include:
- Curricular development and quality assurance.
- Contribute to the development of school policy in relation to behaviour management of pupils.
- The management and guidance of colleagues; review CPD needs, career development and performance of colleagues.
- Provision of advice, support and guidance to colleagues.
- Leadership and strategic direction of pastoral care within the school; assist in managing pastoral care staff.
- Implement whole-school policies dealing with guidance issues, pastoral care, assessment and pupil welfare.
- Work in partnership with colleagues, parents and other specialist agencies as appropriate.
- Work alongside class teachers to share best practice and progress Improvement Plan priorities.
- Participate in the overall administration of the school and assist in aspects of the School Improvement Plan.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification for the full range of tasks and duties. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criterion stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview. The East Lothian Way reflects the values and behaviours expected of our employees. If invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours.
Job Requirements:
- Full GTCS Registration (General).
- Evidence of CPD.
- Post requires specific approval from the Roman Catholic Church Authorities and must be presented at interview.
- This post is 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 will be required to become a PVG Scheme member, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if already a member, prior to any formal offer of employment by East Lothian Council.
- PVG records are updated regularly and any relevant information will be discussed with the applicant before a formal offer is made.
If you have spent more than 3 months working or living outside the UK in the last 5 years, you will be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details available on GOV.UK.
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please visit: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/teachinginfo
Please Note – Pay arrangements: When starting after the first day of the school session, salary and leave/pay arrangements are recalculated in line with the SNCT. Further information will be provided to the successful candidate if applicable.
How to Apply: We do not accept CVs. All vacancies must be applied for by completing the online application form. If you cannot access the online form, you can request a paper application via the contact details provided. If you require further information about this vacancy, please call or email us.
Principal Teacher in Prestonpans employer: East Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
East Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Teacher in Prestonpans
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the school’s values and ethos. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and run through some common interview questions. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when it’s your turn to shine in front of the panel.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you’ve led a team or implemented a successful initiative. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can support the Head Teacher and contribute to school improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of the interview, have a couple of thoughtful questions ready. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Teacher in Prestonpans
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Principal Teacher and how your experience aligns with those requirements.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your skills and experiences specifically relate to the role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements that show you can support our Head Teacher effectively.
Meet the Essential Criteria: Check off each 'essential' criterion listed in the Person Specification. If you don’t meet these, it’s unlikely we’ll be able to consider your application, so be honest and clear about your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, we only accept applications through our online form. It’s super easy! If you have any issues accessing it, just reach out to us for help. We’re here to support you through the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and person specification. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, especially around leadership, pastoral care, and school improvement planning. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. Think about times when you've supported colleagues or improved processes. Being able to articulate your leadership style and how it aligns with the school's values will set you apart.
✨Build Relationships
Since building positive relationships with pupils and staff is essential, be ready to discuss your approach to fostering a supportive environment. Share specific strategies you've used to connect with students and colleagues, and how these have contributed to a positive school culture.
✨Understand the Approval Process
If you're applying from outside the Roman Catholic education system, make sure you know the approval procedures required for this role. Be prepared to discuss how you plan to obtain the necessary references and approvals, as this shows your commitment to the position and respect for the school's values.