At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead school improvement and ensure exceptional educational experiences for pupils.
- Company: Ambitious specialist secondary school in Lewisham with a collaborative leadership structure.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the school's future and work with a dedicated staff team.
- Other info: Join from September 2026 and be part of a supportive governance team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on pupil success and drive high standards in education.
- Qualifications: UK QTS, relevant degree, and at least three years of senior leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 131056 £ per year.
Are you an experienced senior leader ready to take the next step into Headship while working within a collaborative leadership structure? This Co-Headteacher opportunity offers the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a specialist secondary school, leading school improvement, strengthening outcomes and ensuring pupils receive an exceptional educational experience.
This Co-Headteacher role would suit an ambitious and resilient leader with significant SLT experience, a strong understanding of school improvement and a proven ability to drive high standards across teaching, learning, behaviour and safeguarding. Working alongside an existing Co-Headteacher, you will share responsibility for the strategic direction of the school while maintaining a clear focus on pupil achievement, staff development and operational excellence.
The school provides a highly personalised educational experience through smaller class sizes and targeted support, allowing leaders to make a tangible impact on both academic progress and pupil wellbeing. This Co-Headteacher position offers a rare opportunity to shape strategic direction while remaining closely connected to the day-to-day life of the school.
What the school can offer a Co-Headteacher:- A collaborative leadership structure providing support at Headship level
- Opportunity to lead significant school improvement initiatives
- Small class sizes that allow for meaningful pupil relationships and targeted intervention
- Direct involvement in strategic planning, curriculum development and quality assurance
- Strong governance support and engagement from key stakeholders
- The opportunity to shape the school's future vision and long-term success
- A committed and dedicated staff team focused on achieving the best outcomes for pupils
- The ability to make a visible impact across all aspects of school life
- Provide strategic leadership alongside the existing Co-Headteacher
- Lead on school self-evaluation, development planning and inspection readiness
- Drive continuous improvement across teaching, learning and pupil outcomes
- Ensure compliance with all safeguarding, statutory and regulatory requirements
- Develop and support senior leaders, middle leaders and wider staff teams
- Promote high standards of behaviour, attendance and pupil engagement
- Oversee the effective use of staffing, budgets and school resources
- Build strong relationships with parents, governors and external agencies
- Hold UK QTS and a relevant degree
- Have a minimum of three years' senior leadership experience within a school setting
- Demonstrate a successful track record of contributing to school improvement
- Possess strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks, safeguarding and compliance
- Be an inspirational and visible leader with excellent communication skills
- Have the ability to motivate, challenge and develop both staff and pupils
- Be committed to maintaining high expectations and positive outcomes for all learners
If you are an experienced senior leader looking for a Co-Headteacher role where you can play a central role in school improvement, leadership development and pupil success, this is an exciting opportunity to join an ambitious school in Lewisham from September 2026.
Co-Head Teacher employer: Ribbons & Reeves
Join a forward-thinking specialist secondary school in Lewisham as a Co-Headteacher, where you will be part of a collaborative leadership team dedicated to driving school improvement and enhancing pupil outcomes. With a strong focus on professional development, smaller class sizes, and a supportive governance structure, this role offers the unique opportunity to make a significant impact on both academic progress and pupil wellbeing while shaping the school's future vision.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Co-Head Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and connect with other leaders. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Co-Headteacher role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the school’s ethos and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can drive improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams, improved outcomes, and tackled challenges. We want to hear about your successes and how you can replicate them in this new role.
✨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 and making a difference in the school community.
We think you need these skills to ace Co-Head Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Style:When writing your application, let us see your unique leadership style shine through. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past, and how that experience has prepared you for this Co-Headteacher role.
Highlight School Improvement Experience:Make sure to emphasise your track record in driving school improvement. We want to know about the strategies you've implemented and the outcomes achieved, so be specific and data-driven where possible!
Connect with Our Vision:Take a moment to research our school’s vision and values. In your application, reflect on how your personal educational philosophy aligns with ours, and how you can contribute to shaping our future direction.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate professionalism, don’t shy away from letting your personality come through in your writing. We’re looking for someone who can connect with staff, pupils, and parents alike, so a touch of warmth can go a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ribbons & Reeves
✨Know Your School's Vision
Before the interview, take some time to research the school's vision and values. Understand how they align with your own leadership philosophy. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to shaping the school's future and improving pupil outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead school improvement initiatives. Highlight your experience in developing staff, driving high standards, and ensuring compliance with safeguarding regulations.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
During the interview, make sure to engage with the panel by asking insightful questions about their current challenges and goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a meaningful impact as Co-Headteacher.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Pupil Wellbeing
Emphasise your understanding of the importance of pupil wellbeing in achieving academic success. Share strategies you've implemented in the past to foster positive relationships and support pupils' emotional and social development.
