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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a vibrant college community, driving educational excellence and innovation.
- Company: Priestley College, part of The Challenge Academy Trust, dedicated to shaping young futures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and lead a passionate team towards success.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in education and a commitment to inclusion and high standards.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment with strong community partnerships and career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 106000 - 126000 £ per year.
The Challenge Academy Trust and Priestley College are seeking an exceptional leader to become its next Principal. With around 2,000 learners and a wide curriculum offering of over 70 A Level, T Level and vocational courses, Priestley plays a vital role in shaping the future of young people across the area. As a proud member of The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT), Priestley College is a thriving and well-established 16 - 19 academy located in the heart of Warrington. The College works collaboratively with local schools to drive educational excellence and improve outcomes for all young people in Warrington. Priestley is recognised for its inclusive culture, high-quality teaching, strong student motivation, and ambitious, well-planned curriculum.
This is a unique opportunity for an inspirational leader with proven senior management experience in post 16 or secondary settings and the drive to continue Priestley's journey of excellence and innovation.
Responsibilities- Provide outstanding leadership and drive the College's strategic direction in line with TCAT's mission and values.
- Champion high-quality teaching, learning and assessment, securing continuous improvement and strong outcomes for students.
- Lead an inclusive, ambitious and student-centred culture where all learners are supported to excel.
- Build strong partnerships with local schools, employers, community organisations and regional stakeholders.
- Ensure financial sustainability, regulatory compliance and effective governance across all aspects of the College.
- Work collaboratively with TCAT and other stakeholders to maximise opportunities for students and staff alike.
- A proven track record of successful senior leadership encompassing a post-16 setting.
- The drive, resilience and integrity to lead with conviction and compassion.
- A clear commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and promoting high standards.
- The ability to unite and inspire staff, students, parents, and the wider community.
- A deep understanding of educational improvement, curriculum development, and effective education systems.
Closing date for applications is noon on Monday 09 March 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an assessment centre on Thursday 26 March 2026. Following the assessment centre, candidates will be reviewed with the successful candidates being invited to a formal panel interview on Friday 27 March 2026.
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Andrew Moorcroft, TCAT CEO, via email. For tours of the school, contact Victoria Briggs, TCAT Director of Education, via email.
Salary and Benefits- Salary: £122,306 - £141,693
- Sixth Form Colleges Association Leadership terms & conditions of employment.
- Eligible for membership of the Teachers' Pension Scheme.
- Occupational Sick Pay Scheme (entitlements based on service).
- Access to TCAT+, our Reward, Recognition and Wellbeing platform, including access to retailer discounts and benefits, car lease scheme, discounted healthcare cash plan, cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme and other online resources to support physical, emotional, professional, financial and social wellbeing.
- Access to a comprehensive CPD framework through 'Education Connect', our professional development arm, and online resources from the National College.
- An environment where employee health and wellbeing are actively supported and promoted.
You can learn more about Priestley College and The Challenge Academy Trust via their websites. Additional information on the role, the Trust and the College is included in the applicant pack, which also includes the job description and person specification for the role.
To apply please go to Principal at Priestley College, Warrington, Cheshire | MyNewTerm or our Trust website.
Principal in Warrington employer: Priestley College
Contact Detail:
Priestley College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal in Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who have insights into leadership roles. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the assessment centre! Brush up on your leadership strategies and be ready to showcase how you can drive excellence at Priestley College. Practice common interview questions with a mate to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education! When you get the chance to speak, let your enthusiasm for shaping young minds shine through. Share your vision for an inclusive and ambitious learning environment.
✨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 the team at Priestley College.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal in Warrington
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 others and drive excellence at Priestley College.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in senior leadership roles, especially in post-16 settings. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and improve educational outcomes.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity at Priestley College.
How to prepare for a job interview at Priestley College
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to articulate your vision for the college. Think about how you can align it with The Challenge Academy Trust's mission and values. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would implement to drive educational excellence and improve outcomes for students.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience in post-16 or secondary settings. Discuss how you've united and inspired staff, students, and the community in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to lead with conviction and compassion, which is crucial for this position.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Student-Centred Culture
Be prepared to talk about how you have championed inclusivity and supported diverse learners in your past roles. Share specific initiatives or programmes you've led that foster a student-centred culture, as this aligns perfectly with the college's ethos.
✨Engage with Local Partnerships
Research local schools, employers, and community organisations that Priestley College collaborates with. During the interview, express your ideas on how to strengthen these partnerships and create new opportunities for students and staff. This shows your commitment to building strong relationships within the community.
