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- Tasks: Lead a thriving family of schools with a strong Christian ethos and ambitious vision.
- Company: The Princethorpe Foundation, a respected group of independent co-educational day schools.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the future of education and make a real impact.
- Why this job: Inspire and support educational excellence while championing student welfare.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in senior educational leadership and strong interpersonal skills.
- Other info: Join a caring, inclusive community with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Princethorpe Foundation is seeking to appoint an exceptional CEO and Principal to lead the Foundation into its next chapter, following the retirement of Ed Hester in August 2027 after 16 years of outstanding leadership. This is a rare and prestigious opportunity to lead a thriving family of schools with a proud heritage, a strong Christian ethos and an ambitious vision for the future.
The Princethorpe Foundation is a well-established and highly respected group of independent, co-educational day schools, educating around 1,400 pupils from nine months to eighteen years. The Foundation comprises Little Crackers Nursery, Crackley Hall School, Crescent School and Princethorpe College. Each school has its own distinct character, while sharing a common commitment to academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and a rich co-curricular life.
Rooted in Catholic values and Christian principles, the Foundation is known for its strong sense of family, warmth and inclusivity. Pupils are supported to flourish academically, socially and personally in an environment that is caring, aspirational and forward-thinking.
Reporting to the Chair of Trustees and leading the Foundation Executive Committee, the CEO and Principal will shape and deliver a compelling strategic vision for the future of the Foundation. You will provide inspirational, visible and collaborative leadership across all schools, working closely with Heads, trustees, staff and the wider community to ensure the Foundation remains innovative, sustainable and high performing.
This is a pivotal role, combining educational leadership with strong commercial and organisational oversight. You will champion academic and pastoral excellence, safeguard the welfare of pupils, and lead the Foundation confidently through future opportunities and challenges.
As CEO and Principal:
- Champion and embody the Catholic and Christian ethos of the Foundation
- Provide clear strategic vision and lead the development and delivery of the Foundation's strategic plan
- Inspire and support Heads and senior leaders to deliver the highest standards of education and care
- Act as a visible ambassador for the Foundation with pupils, parents, staff, trustees, alumni and donors
- Lead on safeguarding, governance, compliance and risk management
- Oversee financial planning, sustainability and long-term viability
- Drive collaboration, innovation and best practice across all schools
- Promote staff wellbeing, professional development and succession planning
- Strengthen the Foundation's profile, admissions strategy and external partnerships
We are seeking a leader of stature, integrity and imagination, with a proven, significant track record in senior educational leadership. You will be visible, approachable and values-driven, with the ability to inspire trust, build strong relationships and lead with clarity and compassion.
How To Apply:
To arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact: Laura McGunigle, Satis Education - 07931 384683. To apply, please complete the application form and submit a supporting statement of no more than two A4 pages.
Long-listing interviews will take place week commencing Monday 9 March 2026 via Teams. Final interviews will be held on Monday 23 March 2026 at Princethorpe College.
Safeguarding:
The Foundation is committed to equal opportunities and safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
CEO and Principal employer: UNIC International
Contact Detail:
UNIC International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CEO and Principal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on the perfect role for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Princethorpe Foundation thoroughly, understand their ethos, and think about how your vision aligns with theirs. Be ready to share your ideas on how to lead and inspire within their unique environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, be sure to highlight your collaborative approach and how you've successfully led teams in the past. They want to see that you can embody their values and inspire others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Princethorpe Foundation family.
We think you need these skills to ace CEO and Principal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you dive into your application, take a moment to explore the Princethorpe Foundation. Understanding our ethos and values will help you tailor your application to show how you align with our mission.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your leadership style and vision for the Foundation. Keep it concise but impactful, sticking to the two A4 pages limit.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your significant track record in educational leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire trust and lead with clarity, as these are key qualities we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us directly and gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNIC International
✨Understand the Foundation's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the Catholic values and Christian principles that underpin the Princethorpe Foundation. Reflect on how your own leadership style aligns with these values and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've embodied similar principles in your previous roles.
✨Craft a Compelling Vision
As a candidate for CEO and Principal, you’ll need to present a clear strategic vision for the Foundation’s future. Prepare to articulate your ideas on academic excellence, pastoral care, and community engagement. Think about innovative strategies that could enhance the Foundation's profile and admissions strategy, and be ready to share them.
✨Showcase Collaborative Leadership
This role requires strong collaboration with various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams and working with trustees, staff, and the wider community. Highlight instances where you’ve successfully fostered collaboration and innovation in your previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a critical aspect of this role. Familiarise yourself with best practices in safeguarding and be ready to discuss how you would ensure the welfare of pupils. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for students.
