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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a school community to achieve educational excellence for all students.
- Company: Join Leigh Academy Snowfields, part of a supportive MAT network.
- Benefits: Enjoy a six-figure salary, private healthcare, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and shape the future of education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for special educational needs.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities and a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
Leigh Academy Snowfields (Bearsted, Cranbrook and Minster Colleges) is offering an exciting Principal position starting September 2026. This role is part of a MAT network, with a six‑figure salary, performance bonus, private healthcare and additional benefits.
Who we’re looking for:
- Ambitious school leader with an understanding of and passion for providing educational excellence for pupils with special educational needs.
- Motivational and inspirational leader with high expectations of staff.
- Confident and able to communicate a clear vision for the school.
- Deep understanding of and passion for providing educational excellence for pupils with special educational needs.
- Ability to establish and develop excellent relationships with the community and other stakeholders.
- Proven track record of supporting young people to reach their full potential regardless of background or circumstance.
- Exceptional pastoral leadership skills with a focus on student wellbeing and development.
- Outstanding communication skills to inspire and engage students, staff, and parents.
What we can offer you:
- Six figure salary along with private healthcare and an opportunity to earn a performance bonus.
- An exciting LAT career path with opportunities for further progression in the future.
- Security and support on your journey from close collaboration with a small central executive and a larger group of talented Principals.
To support your application, we recommend reviewing the Job Pack which outlines the full role responsibilities and person specification, and preparing a strong application. Visits are available in early‑January 2026. Please contact Amanda Gobell, PA to the Principal, via email: amanda.gobell@snowfields.latrust.org.uk and propose dates for your visit. For an initial conversation with the Trust Academies Director Emma Elwin, please contact Molly Allen via molly.allen@latrust.org.uk.
Application deadlines:
- Closing date: Monday 19 January 2026 (9 am)
- Shortlisting date: Monday 19 January (PM)
- Interview dates: Monday 26 January and Tuesday 27 January 2026
For queries, contact Amy Wenban (Recruitment Advisor) on 01634 412 205 or amy.wenban@latrust.org.uk.
Principal employer: LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST
Contact Detail:
LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Leigh Academy Snowfields and ask about their experiences. This can give you insider info that’ll help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising your responses to common questions. Think about how your leadership style aligns with the school's vision and be ready to share specific examples of your past successes.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for educational excellence! During your conversations, highlight your commitment to supporting students with special educational needs and how you’ve made a difference in their lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Leigh Academy Snowfields.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the Principal role and its responsibilities. Dive into the Job Pack and highlight key points that resonate with your experience and passion for educational excellence.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We want to see your unique approach to leadership! Use your application to share examples of how you've inspired and motivated staff and students in the past. Be specific about your achievements and how they align with our vision.
Connect with the Community: Demonstrate your ability to build relationships with the community and stakeholders. Share any experiences where you've successfully engaged with parents or local organisations to enhance student wellbeing and development.
Apply Through Our Website: When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at Leigh Academy Snowfields!
How to prepare for a job interview at LEIGH ACADEMIES TRUST
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to clearly define your vision for the school. Think about how you can articulate this in a way that resonates with the values of Leigh Academy Snowfields. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their commitment to educational excellence, especially for pupils with special educational needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your motivational and inspirational leadership skills. Think about specific instances where you've set high expectations for staff and how you've supported them in achieving those goals. This will demonstrate your ability to lead effectively within a MAT network.
✨Build Relationships
Be ready to discuss how you've established strong relationships with the community and stakeholders in your previous roles. Share strategies you've used to engage parents and inspire students, as this is crucial for the Principal role. Remember, they want someone who can connect with everyone involved in the school.
✨Focus on Wellbeing
Given the emphasis on pastoral leadership, prepare to talk about your approach to student wellbeing and development. Have examples ready that showcase how you've prioritised mental health and created a supportive environment for students. This will show that you understand the importance of holistic education.
