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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a vibrant college community to achieve exceptional educational outcomes.
- Company: City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, part of Potteries Educational Trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape futures.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and drive educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education with a focus on values and outcomes.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to transforming education for all learners.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College is an Ofsted graded ‘Good’ Academy on the cusp of being ‘Exceptional’. With over 60 courses and an outstanding curriculum, the college prepares almost 2,000 students to achieve more, supported by a dedicated teaching staff and state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
About the role
The Principal is the college’s strategic leader, shaping its vision, culture and long‑term direction. Working closely with the CEO, Local Governing Body and wider academy community, the Principal will:
- Define and champion the college’s values, ensuring they are lived out in every aspect of provision
- Inspire, empower and motivate the 180 staff and students to achieve exceptional outcomes
- Drive high‑quality teaching, curriculum innovation and rigorous assessment, ensuring all learners are supported and challenged to fulfil their potential
- Cultivate a culture built on respect, inclusion and high expectations
- Maintain strong quality assurance, effective communication and evidence‑informed decision‑making to keep the college on a clear trajectory towards outstanding performance
- Build partnerships with local schools, employers, community organisations and regional stakeholders, representing the college and Trust with credibility and ambition
- Shape futures, develop staff talent and enhance life chances for every learner, regardless of background
Who we are looking for
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- A proven track record as an exceptional, values‑driven leader who inspires excellence and secures outstanding outcomes for every learner
- Strong academic foundation and teaching experience, plus substantial senior leadership experience within a post‑16 or relevant educational setting
- Strategic insight combined with compassionate, inspirational leadership; skilled in analysing data, shaping curriculum and using evidence to support complex decision‑making
- Excellent communication skills and a history of building productive relationships with governors, staff, students, families and external partners
- Professionalism, diplomacy and transparency, upholding the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality and public accountability
- Financial acumen and the ability to manage 16–19 funding, budgets, recruitment and risk with rigour while maintaining high expectations under pressure
- A commitment to equality, safeguarding and the welfare of all students and staff, championing the transformative power of education
Closing date
Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 5th May 2026 Candidates informed of outcome: Wednesday 13th May 2026
Contact
Please contact our advising consultants at Peridot Partners for further information or a confidential discussion.
Principal: City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College | Potteries Educational Trust in Sandford employer: Peridot Partners
Contact Detail:
Peridot Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal: City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College | Potteries Educational Trust in Sandford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, attend local events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that Principal role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college’s values and recent achievements. We recommend crafting a few examples of how you’ve inspired excellence and driven innovation in your previous roles. Show them you’re the perfect fit for their vision!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe it can make a real difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’ve streamlined everything to make it easier for you to showcase your skills and experience. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your application in the best light possible!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal: City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College | Potteries Educational Trust in Sandford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how you can inspire and motivate others, so share your vision for the college and how you plan to champion its values.
Be Specific: Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your leadership skills and achievements. We love seeing concrete evidence of how you've driven high-quality teaching and supported learners in achieving their potential.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Principal at our college. Highlight your strategic insight and how it aligns with our mission. We’re looking for someone who understands our unique context and can build strong partnerships within the community.
Check Your Details: Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which are key qualities we value. Remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Peridot Partners
✨Know the College Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College's mission, values, and recent achievements. Familiarise yourself with their curriculum and any innovative programmes they offer. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your vision with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Principal, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've inspired and motivated staff and students in the past. Highlight your strategic insights and how you've used data to drive improvements, ensuring you demonstrate your ability to lead with compassion and effectiveness.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to make tough choices or manage conflicts. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, showcasing your ability to handle challenges while maintaining high expectations.
✨Build Connections with Stakeholders
Discuss your experience in building partnerships with local schools, employers, and community organisations. Be ready to share how you've represented your previous institutions with credibility and ambition. This will demonstrate your understanding of the importance of collaboration in achieving exceptional outcomes for learners.