Principal in Newtownards

A Principal shall be required to carry out his/her professional duties in accordance with the school’s policy and objectives as determined by the employing authority and, in the case of a controlled school, the Board of Governors. The Principal shall be responsible for the internal organisation, management and control of the school.

The professional duties of a Principal include:

• Formulating the overall aims and objectives of the school and policies for their implementation;
• Participating in the selection and appointment of the teaching and non-teaching staff of the school;
• Deploying and managing all teaching and non-teaching staff of the school and allocating particular duties to them;
• Ensuring that the duty of providing cover for absent teachers is shared equitably among all teachers in the school;
• Maintaining relationships with organisations representing teachers and other persons on the staff of the school;
• Determining, organising and implementing an appropriate curriculum for the school;
• Keeping under review the work and organisation of the school;
• Evaluating the standards of teaching and learning in the school;
• Providing information about the work and performance of the staff employed at the school;
• Participating in any scheme of staff development and performance review of teachers;
• Ensuring that the progress of the pupils of the school is monitored and recorded;
• Determining and ensuring the implementation of a policy for the pastoral care of the pupils;
• Promoting good behaviour among the pupils and regulating their conduct;
• Making arrangements for parents to be given regular information about the school curriculum and the progress of their children;
• Promoting effective relationships with persons and bodies outside the school;
• Advising and assisting the Board of Governors in the exercise of their functions;
• Providing for liaison and co-operation with the employing authority;
• Maintaining liaison with other schools and institutions of further education;
• Allocating, controlling and accounting for financial and material resources of the school;
• Making arrangements for the security and effective supervision of the school buildings and grounds;
• Arranging for a Vice-Principal or another suitable person to assume responsibility in the Principal's absence;
• Participating in the teaching of the pupils at the school;
• Participating in the Performance Review and Staff Development (PRSD) for Principals.

In addition to the above, the following professional duties of a principal have been amended:

• Considering how far the duties of the principal may be delegated to any vice-principal;
• Ensuring that teachers at the school receive information they need to carry out their professional duties effectively.

A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate relevant experience, knowledge and skills associated with the following key areas:

• Shaping the Future: Keep abreast of and anticipate educational trends; think strategically to build and communicate a shared coherent vision; create an ethos and provide direction; inspire, challenge, motivate and empower others.
• Leading and Managing Staff: Provide high quality leadership; collaborate and network with others; foster a culture of shared leadership; support the development of an open, fair, equitable culture.
• Leading Learning and Teaching: Cultivate enthusiasm for learning; lead and manage the development of an effective learning culture; ensure effective implementation of the NI Curriculum.
• Developing the School in the Community: Lead and manage the development and promotion of a positive image of the school; develop and maintain strong relationships with parents and the community.
• Managing the Organisation: Prioritise, plan and organise effectively; establish and maintain appropriate structures and systems; manage resources efficiently.
• Ensuring Accountability: Create a culture of accountability; lead and manage the process of monitoring and evaluating school outcomes.

The Conditions of Service for this post will be in accordance with the Regulations of the Department of Education for Northern Ireland. This job description will be subject to review in light of changing circumstances.

Applicants must hold a teaching qualification which meets the requirements for recognition to teach in grant-aided schools in Northern Ireland. Preference may be given to those who have successfully completed an additional postgraduate qualification in Education.

The successful candidate must demonstrate extensive knowledge of the Northern Ireland Primary Curriculum, current educational developments, effective classroom pedagogy, and sound financial governance.

The successful candidate must also demonstrate highly developed skills in leading, motivating, managing, and communicating effectively.

Personal qualities required include vision, integrity, enthusiasm, and the ability to cope under pressure.

The Board of Governors reserves the right to enhance the essential criteria if necessary. Applicants must be registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland upon taking up employment.

In the event that you are recommended for appointment to a post that involves ‘regulated activity’, the Education Authority will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background.