Assistant Headteacher: Head of Mathematics and Most Able (Years 7-13) in Rochford

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead, shape and build one of the very best Maths departments in Essex, while also driving a whole-school commitment to excellence for our most able students across KS3-5. As an Assistant Headteacher with strategic oversight of Maths and the Most Able strand, you will work closely with the Headteacher and senior leaders to design an exceptional curriculum, develop outstanding teaching, and ensure that high prior attainers are consistently stretched, challenged and inspired. You will have genuine influence - setting direction, growing talent, and embedding a culture where ambition, scholarship and belief in what students can achieve is woven through every classroom. Aligned to our vision of being a remarkable school, this role is for an ambitious leader who wants to build something exceptional and leave a lasting legacy of excellence. We are determined to become the school of choice in Essex - a place where every young person is challenged, supported, and inspired to thrive. This isn’t a dream - it is a promise and you will be at the centre of delivering and creating this.

This is a strategic leadership post, combining subject excellence with whole-school impact. The successful candidate will:

• Provide strategic leadership for Mathematics, driving up standards and championing excellent pedagogy across Years 7-13
• Lead and develop the Most Able and Scholars provision, including the innovative KES Scholars Programme
• Inspire and develop staff as part of a values-driven, supportive SLT
• Shape a culture where ambition, excellence and intellectual curiosity are celebrated

We’re seeking an exceptional leader who:

• Is an outstanding teacher and credible leader of Mathematics with a proven track record in the classroom and in leading the subject strategically
• Has demonstrable success in improving outcomes and developing teams - you’ll need to show clear evidence of raising standards and building capacity in others
• Is intellectually curious, outward-facing and excited by innovation and excellence - someone who actively seeks out best practice, stays current with educational research, and brings fresh thinking to the role
• Believes deeply in the power of enrichment, aspiration and opportunity - you’re passionate about unlocking potential and creating transformative experiences for our most able students
• Aligns with our values: Dream. Believe. Achieve. - these aren’t just words on a wall; they should reflect your approach to leadership and education
• Combines strategic vision with operational excellence - you can think big picture whilst ensuring the details are right
• Is a visible, values-driven leader who inspires trust, collaboration and professional growth across the school community
• Has the resilience and adaptability to thrive in a school on an ambitious improvement journey, embracing both the challenges and opportunities this brings
• Brings energy, positivity and a solutions-focused mindset to everything you do - you’re someone who makes things happen

This is a school with immense potential and a powerful sense of purpose. Under new leadership, we are creating something exceptional - step by step, brick by brick. You will be joining a committed, talented team at a moment of transformation, where your leadership will directly shape our school’s success story. Come and be part of something extraordinary! The school day lends itself to a good work/life balance with the teaching day ending at 14:10. The school offers an extensive support programme, including mentor/buddy system, Initial Teacher Training support for Early Career Teachers (ECTs) or for those seeking Qualified Teacher Status (QTS / QTLS), a system of twilight training sessions, as well as excellent development opportunities. Staff benefits include free car parking, onsite gymnasium and swimming pool as well as staff recognition schemes.

The King Edmund School is a co-educational comprehensive school for students aged 11 to 19. KES, as it is better known to staff and students, is an Ofsted rated 'Good' single academy trust in Rochford, Essex, which serves a geographically and socially diverse area. In the school's last Ofsted report in 2024, KES was awarded 'Good' and their values and ethos were clearly recognised in the findings. Students learn a well-designed and balanced curriculum that meets their needs and teachers have strong subject knowledge. The school's values foster a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to achieve their Personal Best. High aspirations, academic success, and a commitment to excellence are promoted. The inclusive community celebrates diversity, ensuring all students feel valued and respected. A safe, caring space is provided for students to grow, taking pride in their achievements both inside and outside of school.

All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.