Summary
ARE YOU AN ASPIRING PRIMARY SENIOR LEADER LOOKING FOR YOUR FIRST PRINCIPALSHIP?
We are currently looking for highly motivated and inspirational leaders to join our Accelerated Principal programme. We want to hear from talented leaders who feel they are ready and considering a fast track programme in preparation for their first Principalship.
Succession planning forms a key part of our success and we believe that we are at the forefront of developing the next generation of Principals. Aimed at existing Heads of Academy, Deputy and Assistant Heads who are aspiring Principals, we offer an Accelerated Principal Programme designed to prepare Senior Leaders for their first Principalship. This is a 24 month fast track programme during which we invest in your knowledge and expertise through regular support, coaching and a wide range of professional development and training. The programme consists of two 12 month placements in contrasting Harris academies, and a bespoke mentoring and support plan in preparation for full Principalship with a Harris academy on completion of the programme.
If you are an experienced senior leader looking forward to your first Principalship, then our fast track programme is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly collaborative Federation where we will prepare you to lead a school confidently and effectively, whilst offering a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best educational leaders in the country.
About Us
The Harris Federation is the leading large Multi Academy Trust in the country for both primary and secondary education. We have an established reputation in transforming education in London and an unrivalled track record in achieving success through rapid school improvement.
Harris is a Federation and not a chain; each academy is different, reflecting the particular aspirations and leadership style of its Principal. Our vision is that Harris academies work collaboratively in sharing school improvement strategies, and support one another as part of the wider Harris Federation. We look for talented individuals who want to help transform education in London, and create exceptional places of learning.
Our vision for Harris primary academies is that every child is safe, happy and respected.
Despite in many cases replacing schools that had been considered failing by Ofsted, today the majority of Harris primaries are rated “Outstanding” and the others are “Good”.
By Year 6, the proportion of our pupils meeting expected standards in reading, writing and maths is well above average. Disadvantaged pupils, those with special education needs and with English as an additional language all surpass national scores for their cohorts.
Main Areas of Responsibility
As Principal, you will provide the leadership and management necessary to secure high quality teaching and learning to rapidly raise standards of achievement.
The Principal is the leading professional in the academy. Working with the Governing body and Harris Federation, the Principal will provide leadership and direction for the academy to ensure that it achieves an outstanding quality of education swiftly. The Principal is responsible for the continuous improvement in the quality of education; for raising standards; for ensuring equality of opportunity for all; for the development of policies and practices; and for ensuring that resources are efficiently and effectively used to achieve the academy’s aims and objectives. The Principal should also secure the commitment of the wider community by developing and maintaining effective networks with, for example, other schools, higher education institutions, employers, careers services and with the Harris Federation. The Principal is responsible for creating a productive, disciplined learning environment and for the day-to-day running, management, organisation and administration of the academy.
Qualifications & Experience
The successful candidate will have:
- A passion for making a positive difference to students’ lives through education
- Qualified Teacher Status, Degree, Further relevant professional studies
- Experience as a Senior Leader in a Primary school
- An aspiration to create an system which promotes social mobility
- Experience leading curriculum development and in monitoring and evaluation strategies.
- Proven track record of raising attainment in an urban, multi-ethnic environment
- Track record of raising standards in English and Mathematics and good knowledge of raising standards in Literacy and Numeracy
- Good understanding of inclusion and equality
- Successful experience leading staff development
Next Steps
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact us via e-mail, or call to arrange a conversation.
Before applying, please download the Job Pack for full details on the job responsibilities and person specification. You will need this when completing your application.
Please note: we may hold interviews as and when applications are received and we reserve the right to offer to a candidate prior to the closing date. We only accept applications submitted online via our careers website and which are completed before the closing deadline. With this in mind, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible and advise you check the job information as per the listing on our careers site.
Professional Development & Benefits
Our people are at the heart of our success. We have developed a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level to senior leadership.
We look for talented individuals who share our vision for creating exceptional places of learning, and are committed to ensuring that every child in London has access to the best possible education.
In addition to the opportunities for career progression, training and development, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package.
Safeguarding Notice
The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed for all applicants. Before applying, please review our Policy Statement on the Recruitment of Ex-Offenders.
Equal Opportunities
The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.
Aspiring Principal Programme: Primary in London employer: HARRIS FEDERATION
Harris Academy Rainham is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow. With a strong focus on professional development, our team benefits from tailored training programmes, meaningful workload management, and opportunities for career progression within the Academy and the wider Harris Federation. Located in Havering, we are committed to educational excellence and inclusivity, making it a rewarding place to contribute to the lives of our students and community.
