Headteacher

The headship of Cotton End Forest School, a community primary and nursery for 430 children aged 2 to 11. The post leads the curriculum, staff and provision from Early Years to Key Stage 2 while protecting the school's Forest School identity. Its distinct features are on-site outdoor classrooms and nature-based learning areas, and close ties with families and the local community. Visa sponsorship is not available, and the proposed start is April 2027.

What the job involves

  • Lead an ambitious, high-quality curriculum from Early Years to Key Stage 2
  • Build on high-quality teaching, assessment and outcomes for all pupils
  • Protect and develop the Forest School and outdoor-learning ethos
  • Embed outdoor and experiential learning across curriculum, culture and community life
  • Ensure every child, including those with SEND or facing disadvantage, is known, valued and supported to achieve
  • Develop and empower staff and future leaders
  • Maintain a strong culture of safeguarding, inclusion and positive behaviour
  • Work in partnership with the Governing Body, families and the wider community
  • Shape a clear and ambitious vision for the school's next phase

What’s required

Experience

  • Experienced and credible school leader
  • Track record of school improvement
  • Experience of leading improvement after significant educational or organisational change

Skills & knowledge

  • Understanding of what excellent teaching and learning looks like
  • Strong people leadership
  • Ability to build trust, listen and communicate clearly
  • Willingness to make decisions, provide challenge and hold high standards
  • Genuine commitment to Forest School principles
  • Ability to show how outdoor and experiential learning would sit within a knowledge-rich curriculum

Nice to have

  • Forest School leadership experience
  • Transferable leadership experience
  • Willingness to develop specialist Forest School expertise

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Contact Details:

The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team