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- Tasks: Lead a successful grammar school, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for students and staff.
- Company: Tonbridge Grammar School, a high-achieving state grammar school with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real impact in education and lead innovative change.
- Why this job: Join a renowned school focused on diversity, equality, and academic excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience and a passion for empowering teams.
- Other info: Welcoming applications from diverse backgrounds; no prior grammar school experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a highly driven, approachable and versatile professional to lead this highly successful grammar school. For September 2026 (January 2027 to be considered for the right candidate).
Tonbridge Grammar School is a high‑achieving, selective grammar school with academy status, educating girls between the ages of 11 and 16, and girls and boys in the Sixth Form. Our vibrant school community is a place where students and staff are encouraged to be the very best that they can be, in a nurturing and kind climate where wellbeing is at the top of the agenda. A culture of high academic achievement is combined with a warm, inclusive culture and an exciting holistic programme of activities and experiences.
The experienced, committed and supportive trustees seek a leader with:
- A proven track record of successful senior leadership experience gained as a Head Teacher or Deputy Head Teacher.
- A strong alignment with Tonbridge Grammar School’s focus on diversity, equality and inclusion in all that the School does.
- Demonstrable experience of leading and managing outstanding teams and supporting and empowering colleagues.
- Experience of managing successful change and transition, as well as leading innovation at a whole school level.
The successful candidate will be ready to lead change which will further enhance the school, whilst maintaining the excellence for which we are already renowned; TGS was placed 3rd in the South East and 14th in the UK in the 2026 Times Parent Power State Secondary School league table and was judged outstanding for overall effectiveness following an OFSTED inspection in December 2024. They will furthermore embody the values of inclusivity, authenticity and interconnectedness that allow our students to thrive in an environment that allows us to ‘educate able students for life’ in a rapidly changing local, national and international landscape.
No previous experience of working in a grammar school is necessary and we welcome applicants from both state and independent sectors. We are committed to advancing diversity among our staff to reflect that of our student body and therefore we particularly welcome applications from under‑represented groups.
In the first instance, interested candidates are warmly invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role. The deadline for receipt of applications is 10.00am UK time on Wednesday 25th February 2026. Applications should be made electronically to RSAcademics. To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now” and upload your documents according to the instructions provided. You should submit the following (both in PDF format):
- a completed application form
- a covering letter addressed to Sarah Rolls, Chair of Trustees. The letter should explain your reasons for applying.
If you have any questions about uploading your application documents, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations (Leadership Appointments) at: applications@rsacademics.com. Jonathan can also be reached by calling our Head Office on +44 (0) 204 6269 791.
Tonbridge Grammar School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure. RSAcademics is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
Preliminary interviews will take place with RSAcademics on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th February via MS Teams. Short list interviews will take place at the School between Monday 16th and Wednesday 18th March.
Tonbridge Grammar School – Head Teacher employer: RSAcademics Ltd
Contact Detail:
RSAcademics Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Tonbridge Grammar School – Head Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who have experience in leadership roles. They might have insider info or even recommend you for the position at Tonbridge Grammar School.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent achievements. Show us that you align with their focus on diversity, equality, and inclusion. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience can enhance their already outstanding reputation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams, managed change, and fostered an inclusive environment. We want to hear about your successes and how they relate to the role at Tonbridge Grammar School.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure your documents are polished and reflect your passion for leading a vibrant school community.
We think you need these skills to ace Tonbridge Grammar School – Head Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about the opportunity at Tonbridge Grammar School and how your values align with ours.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your covering letter is specifically tailored to this role. Highlight your relevant experience in senior leadership and how it connects to our focus on diversity, equality, and inclusion. We love seeing candidates who understand our ethos!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences.
Follow Application Instructions: Don’t forget to follow the application instructions carefully! Upload your documents in PDF format and ensure everything is submitted by the deadline. We want to make the process as smooth as possible for you, so stick to the guidelines!
How to prepare for a job interview at RSAcademics Ltd
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to research Tonbridge Grammar School thoroughly. Understand its values, achievements, and the community it serves. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in leading the school.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership experience in detail. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed change, and fostered an inclusive environment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses for clarity.
✨Align with Their Values
Tonbridge Grammar School places a strong emphasis on diversity, equality, and inclusion. Make sure to articulate how your personal values align with theirs. Share experiences that demonstrate your commitment to these principles and how you plan to uphold them as Head Teacher.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful ones that reflect your understanding of the school's goals and challenges. This shows you're not just interested in the position, but also in contributing positively to the school's future.
