At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the primary phase, shaping strategy and driving improvement for students and staff.
- Company: Oasis Academy Don Valley, a forward-thinking all-through academy.
- Benefits: Strong mentoring, career pathways, and a values-led organisation.
- Other info: Join a supportive community committed to safeguarding and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education and develop your leadership identity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a senior leader ready for headship responsibilities.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 131056 £ per year.
Oasis Academy Don Valley is offering an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious and values driven primary leader to take on a career defining role, working alongside our newly appointed Principal within a forward thinking, all through academy. This is an ideal opportunity for a talented Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher or senior leader who is already operating at headship level and is ready for the scope, influence and accountability that comes with it.
Why this role is different
This is not a token stepping stone position, but a genuine headship level role with real scope, trust and accountability. As Head of School (Primary), you will lead the full operational and educational life of the primary phase, acting as a visible and decisive leader for staff, pupils and families. You will shape strategy, drive improvement and see the direct impact of your leadership every day, while building the skills, confidence and proven track record needed for future Principal or Headteacher roles. You will be trusted, supported and challenged, working in close partnership with the Principal and the wider Oasis network. This role will suit a leader who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, making difficult decisions when required, and setting a clear direction that others are confident to follow.
What you'll be trusted to lead
- Teaching, learning and curriculum quality across the primary phase
- Staff leadership, development and performance management
- Behaviour, attendance, safeguarding and pastoral systems
- High expectations, consistency and a strong professional culture
- Deep, positive relationships with parents and the local community
You will take vision and translate it into daily practice, ensuring classrooms are calm, ambitious environments in which children thrive.
Who this role is for
This role will suit a senior primary leader who is ready for their first headship level appointment and is already driving improvement beyond their own classroom or phase. You will be credible, visible and confident when leading adults through change, able to balance high expectations with a values led approach. Grounded in strong moral purpose and a genuine commitment to inclusion, you will be motivated to grow, develop and take on increasing leadership responsibility as part of your next career step.
Why Oasis Academy Don Valley?
- A genuine step up role with significant leadership stretch
- Strong mentoring and support from the Principal and Oasis Community Learning
- A values led organisation with national reach and clear career pathways
- The opportunity to shape both a primary phase and your own leadership identity
If you're ready to move from senior leader to headship level impact, this is the role that could define your next chapters.
Safeguarding Statement
Oasis Academy Don Valley is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Head of School (Primary) in London employer: Oasis Community Learning
Oasis Academy Don Valley is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for aspiring leaders in education to make a significant impact within a supportive and values-driven environment. With strong mentorship from the Principal and a commitment to professional growth, you will have the chance to shape the primary phase while developing your leadership identity in a forward-thinking academy. The culture here prioritises collaboration, high expectations, and inclusivity, making it an ideal place for those ready to take on meaningful responsibilities and drive positive change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School (Primary) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, attend local events, and engage with online communities. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the academy's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you genuinely resonate with our mission at Oasis Academy Don Valley. Tailor your responses to reflect our commitment to inclusion and community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven improvement and led teams. We want to hear about your successes and challenges, so make sure you can articulate your journey clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It’s also a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for leading the primary phase at Oasis Academy Don Valley.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School (Primary) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through in your application. We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can make a real impact at Oasis Academy Don Valley.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and achievements that relate directly to the Head of School role. We’re looking for evidence of your leadership skills and how you've driven improvement in previous positions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your vision for the primary phase and how you plan to foster a positive environment for both staff and students.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oasis Community Learning
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your vision for the primary phase. Be ready to articulate how you would translate that vision into daily practice at Oasis Academy Don Valley. This shows you’re not just thinking about the role, but also how you can make a real impact.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change and improvement in the past. Highlight your ability to balance high expectations with a values-led approach. This will demonstrate your readiness for the headship level responsibilities that come with the role.
✨Engage with the Community
Familiarise yourself with the local community and the specific needs of the families at Oasis Academy Don Valley. Be prepared to discuss how you would build deep, positive relationships with parents and the community, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Tough Questions
Expect questions about difficult decisions you've made in your leadership journey. Think about scenarios where you had to set a clear direction or manage performance issues. Being honest and reflective about these experiences will show your capability to handle the challenges of the role.
