At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the learning environment, ensuring student welfare and academic progress.
- Company: Heathside Walton-on-Thames, an Ofsted-rated Outstanding school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and mentorship opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a vibrant, supportive school community.
- Qualifications: Experience in education and a passion for student development.
- Other info: Join us in September 2026 and help shape the future of our students!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are searching for the best education professionals for the Head of Learning position at Heathside Walton-on-Thames, an Ofsted-rated Outstanding school, entering an exciting phase of growth. We are delighted to offer the opportunity for a Head of Learning to join our thriving school community. At Heathside, we believe in nurturing an inclusive, ambitious environment where curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning are at the heart of everything we do.
We are seeking a talented, dynamic, and passionate Head of Learning who is eager to make a meaningful impact—both within their own department and across the whole school community.
As a valued member of our team, you will have:
- Opportunities to Shape and Develop Your Department: Play a key role in shaping the future of your department and influencing its direction as we continue to grow.
- Career Growth and Development: We are committed to supporting your professional journey with access to training, mentorship, and pathways for career progression.
- Impact on the School's Future: Be part of a forward-thinking school community where your contributions will have a lasting impact.
If you're looking for a place to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to a vibrant, supportive school environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
The successful candidate will:
- Produce and update a clear development plan regarding student welfare issues which is linked to the SDP.
- Have an overview of the impact of the behaviour/discipline policy and antibullying policy.
- Have an overview of the impact of current attendance procedures & the impact of the 'inclusion' provision.
- Produce clear procedures for monitoring, evaluating and reviewing academic progress.
- Report on the above to the SLT as part of the school's self-evaluation.
- Complete regular reviews of progress of vulnerable students.
- Be involved in day-to-day student issues & be involved in tracking students on report where necessary.
- Co-ordinate the overview of Students on Discipline Stages, Bullying & Racists logs, Exclusions & attendance.
- Line manage the linked Student Support Co-Ordinator.
- Be responsible for stage reviews and meetings as appropriate.
- Be involved in the online report process and data handling.
- Oversee all parental communication including consultation evenings.
- Liaise as appropriate with outside agencies, SEND Co-ordinator, HSLW and School Counsellor.
We strongly encourage interested candidates to arrange an informal tour of the school. Seeing our vibrant community and learning spaces first-hand is the best way to experience our ethos and values. To arrange a visit, please contact the Headteacher, Mr Clark, via email.
Closing date: Monday 2nd February 2026 at Midday
Interviews: Week Commencing 9th February 2026
Applications will be considered as they are received. We reserve the right to make an appointment prior to the closing date.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting child welfare. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and Enhanced DBS disclosure with Children's Barred List check. Committed to equal opportunities, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Head of Learning employer: Heathsidewalton
Contact Detail:
Heathsidewalton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Learning
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a tour of Heathside. It’s a great way to see the vibe and get a feel for the community. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to showcase your vision! Think about how you can shape the department and contribute to the school's growth. Be ready to share specific ideas during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current staff! If you can, chat with teachers or staff members before your interview. They can give you insider info on the school culture and what they value in a Head of Learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there to help you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Learning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education shine through! We want to see how passionate you are about making a difference in students' lives and how that aligns with our values at Heathside.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who can shape and develop their department, so showcase any leadership roles or initiatives you've taken on in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for the Head of Learning role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about our school community while you’re at it.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heathsidewalton
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the school's ethos and values. Research Heathside Walton-on-Thames, its Ofsted rating, and recent developments. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how you can contribute to their ambitious environment.
✨Showcase Your Vision
Prepare to discuss your ideas for shaping and developing the department. Think about how you would approach student welfare issues and academic progress monitoring. Be ready to share specific strategies that align with the school's goals.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Anticipate questions about handling day-to-day student issues or managing behaviour policies. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you’ve successfully navigated similar challenges, showing your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the school's future plans, professional development opportunities, or how they measure the impact of their policies. This shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in being part of their community.