At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a primary school, shaping its vision and ensuring high standards of education.
- Company: Join a vibrant school community dedicated to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to impact the local community positively.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and shape the future of education.
- Qualifications: Must have teaching qualifications and significant leadership experience.
Primary Location: Down-Newtownards-Londonderry Primary School
Contract Type: Permanent
Duration of Contract/Contract End Date: n/a
Status: Full-Time
Hours per Week: Full-time
Working Pattern: Monday - Friday
Grade/Scale: Principal | L18-L24 | £78,223 - £90,427 per annum
School Group: Group 3
Anticipated Interview Date(s): Stage 1: Monday 29 June 2026; Stage 2 (If required) Tuesday 30 June 2026 (PM)
Additional Information: School visit for shortlisted candidates: Friday 26 June 2026, 4.00pm. Shortlisted candidates will be notified on the evening of Thursday 25 June 2026.
PROFESSIONAL DUTIES OF A PRINCIPAL
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 and shall obey the reasonable directions of the employing authority and, in the case of a controlled school, the Board of Governors.
Professional Duties 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;
- 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;
- Ensuring that all staff in the school have access to advice and training appropriate to their needs;
- 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 effective relationships with persons and bodies outside the school;
- Advising and assisting the Board of Governors in the exercise of their functions;
- Maintaining liaison with other schools and institutions of further education;
- Allocating, controlling and accounting for those 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 during absences;
- Participating in the Performance Review and Staff Development (PRSD) for Principals.
Conditions of Service
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.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications:
- Hold a teaching qualification which meets the requirements for recognition to teach in grant-aided schools in Northern Ireland.
Experience:
- Minimum of 9 years post qualification teaching experience in a primary school within the last 14 years;
- Currently hold or have held for a minimum of 5 years a post with experience of strategic leadership or co-ordination of a whole school area.
Knowledge:
- Extensive knowledge of the Northern Ireland Primary Curriculum and current policies;
- Current educational developments and the ability to evaluate and respond to new educational challenges.
Skills:
- Lead, motivate, manage, challenge and enthuse others;
- Create an ethos and articulate vision for the future of the school;
- Develop good relationships at all levels and promote a collaborative approach.
Personal Qualities:
- Vision;
- A sound value system;
- Enthusiasm and motivation;
- Integrity;
- Discretion;
- Adaptability.
The Board of Governors reserves the right to enhance the essential criteria if necessary in order to facilitate a manageable shortlist.
Applicants must be registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) 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.
Principal in Newtownards employer: National Instruments
As a Principal at Londonderry Primary School, you will be part of a vibrant educational community dedicated to fostering a culture of high expectations and successful learning. Our supportive work environment encourages professional development and collaboration, ensuring that you have the resources and opportunities to grow in your leadership role. Located in the picturesque town of Newtownards, you will enjoy a fulfilling career while making a meaningful impact on the lives of our students and the wider community.
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We think this is how you could land Principal in Newtownards
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal in Newtownards
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at National Instruments, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
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How to prepare for a job interview at National Instruments
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that National Instruments might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
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Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at National Instruments.
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Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
