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- Tasks: Lead a historic school, fostering academic excellence and creativity in a supportive environment.
- Company: Wells Cathedral School, a unique institution blending heritage with modern education.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape future leaders in a prestigious setting with a focus on holistic development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a nationally respected school with a world-class music programme.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience, ideally in a boarding or all-through educational setting.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community committed to integrity, respect, and nurturing talent.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Wells Cathedral School is a unique all‑through school, offering an exceptional education for pupils aged 2 to 18 in the heart of the historic city of Wells. Founded in AD 909, the School combines history and heritage with a forward‑looking educational philosophy that places academic rigour, creativity and personal development at its core.
Wells Cathedral School is one of only four specialist music schools in England, and the only one to offer a level of musical training recognised as truly world‑class within a holistic, all‑round educational setting. Music is an intrinsic part of daily life, embedded within a calm, purposeful and supportive co‑educational day and boarding community. Pupils benefit from academic breadth, pastoral care, sport, the arts and a rich co‑curricular programme, enabling them to pursue excellence in many disciplines and to thrive as confident, balanced and intellectually curious young people.
The School’s close relationship with Wells Cathedral continues to shape its character and sense of purpose, providing an inspiring setting for music‑making and reflection. Wells Cathedral School is inclusive and outward‑looking, welcoming pupils and families of all faiths and none, united by shared values of integrity, respect and responsibility. Its long‑standing motto, Esto Quod Es ("Be What You Are") captures a commitment to enabling each pupil to discover and develop their own strengths within a caring and ambitious environment.
Wells Cathedral School now seeks an outstanding Head to build on its many strengths and to lead the School confidently into its next phase. Reporting to the Board of Governors, the Head will provide visionary, collegiate leadership, safeguarding the School’s distinctive ethos while ensuring it continues to thrive in a changing educational landscape. This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally and internationally respected institution with a unique educational offer.
The successful candidate will be a visible and warm leader with a strong track record of senior leadership, ideally within a boarding or all‑through setting. They will bring strategic insight, educational excellence and a genuine commitment to holistic education, coupled with an appreciation of music at the highest level. Above all, they will have the ability to inspire trust, nurture talent and sustain the supportive, aspirational culture that defines life at Wells Cathedral School.
A CV and covering letter should be submitted by Wednesday 18 February 2026 at 09:00 GMT. Wells Cathedral School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, and obtaining an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Services certificate. In addition, as part of the shortlisting process we will carry out an online search as part of the school’s due diligence.
All positions within the school are exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All applicants must therefore declare all previous convictions and cautions, including those which would normally be considered “spent” except those received for an offence committed in the United Kingdom if it has been filtered in accordance with the DBS filtering rules.
Application page: www.odgers.com/95325
I would like to invite you to our Open Morning on Saturday, 7th March 2026.
Head – Wells Cathedral School employer: Wells Cathedral School
Contact Detail:
Wells Cathedral School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head – Wells Cathedral School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those connected to Wells Cathedral School. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's ethos and values. Understand their commitment to holistic education and music. This will help you connect your vision with theirs during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to share examples of how you've inspired trust and nurtured talent in previous roles. They want to see how you can bring that warm, visible leadership to Wells Cathedral School.
✨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 Wells Cathedral School community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head – Wells Cathedral School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your leadership experience and passion for holistic education. We want to see how you can inspire trust and nurture talent, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV. Tailor it to reflect your experience in senior leadership, especially in boarding or all-through settings. Show us how your background aligns with our unique ethos and commitment to excellence.
Showcase Your Musical Insight: Since music is a big part of our school culture, include any relevant musical experience or appreciation in your application. We’re looking for someone who understands the importance of music in education, so let that passion come through!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t forget the deadline – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wells Cathedral School
✨Know the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with Wells Cathedral School's unique ethos and values. Understand their commitment to holistic education and how music plays a vital role in their community. This will help you align your vision with theirs during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences, particularly in boarding or all-through settings. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've inspired trust and nurtured talent in your previous roles, as this is crucial for the Head position.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of community within the school. Think about how you would foster relationships with pupils, staff, and parents, and be prepared to discuss strategies for maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a set of insightful questions ready to ask the interview panel. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school. Consider asking about their future plans for the school and how they envision the Head contributing to that vision.
