At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to deliver high-quality education and support for students.
- Company: Join Sinclair Academy, a dynamic and innovative Roman Catholic secondary school.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse workforce committed to holistic student development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education in a rapidly growing community and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant teaching qualification and registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.
35 hours per week, 47 weeks per year, Permanent
Interviews will take place for successful candidates week beginning 1 June 2026.
Sinclair Academy is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Principal Teacher to join our growing team. This is an exceptional opportunity to become part of a dynamic, innovative, and passionate community within a state-of-the-art Roman Catholic secondary school.
Opened in August 2023, Sinclair Academy serves the vibrant and rapidly expanding community of Winchburgh. Our campus boasts world-class sports facilities, shared with Winchburgh Academy and the wider community, and we actively promote a rich programme of extra-curricular activities, offering a wide range of sporting, cultural, and social opportunities.
As a developing school, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Our team works together to deliver outstanding experiences for our young people. This role offers a rare chance to help shape something truly unique, building on our Broad General Education (BGE) and supporting the transition into the senior phase.
Currently, we have a roll of 280 pupils in S1-S3, with steady growth projected to reach our initial capacity of 660 by 2028. Future expansion plans could see the school grow to a maximum of 1,210 pupils. Our leadership team currently consists of a Headteacher, one Depute Headteacher, and a Business Manager.
We are seeking a highly motivated and dynamic practitioner to lead and manage a team within Sinclair Academy, ensuring consistently high-quality learning and teaching that enables all young people to achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from flexible and forward-thinking leaders who are committed to the values of Catholic Education and the holistic development of young people. The successful candidate will play a key role in fostering our whole-school ethos, rooted in the values of Aspiration, Integrity, Mercy, and Service. You will also actively contribute to and support the learning, teaching and assessment associated within WLC's Virtual Academy model/programme.
West Lothian Council are committed to far-reaching changes to the way we deliver our Education Services. These changes include giving you the support and environment that you need to get on with your job and develop your abilities. Our dedication is demonstrated by the whole council achievement of the Investors in People Standard and always aiming a little higher in our service delivery and improvements.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Successful candidates will be required to join the Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check prior to commencing employment and the cost will be met by the candidate. The fee for a Full PVG Scheme Membership is £59 or Existing Member is £18. The £59 cost (where appropriate) will be deducted from your salary over a 1 or 3-month period by repayment schedule. If your employment concludes before the amount is re-paid in full, the outstanding balance will be deducted from your final salary.
A relevant teaching qualification and registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland is essential. Written approval by the Catholic Church will be required for this position. Please see for further information.
The successful candidate will take up post at the beginning of the 2026-27 school session on 10th August 2026.
Principal Teacher & Pupil Support - Lead & Inspire in Broxburn employer: West Lothian Council
Sinclair Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive environment for educators to thrive. With a commitment to holistic development and collaboration, our state-of-the-art facilities and rich programme of extra-curricular activities provide ample opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Join us in shaping the future of education in Winchburgh, where your contributions will be valued and celebrated within a dynamic team dedicated to the values of Catholic Education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Teacher & Pupil Support - Lead & Inspire in Broxburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Sinclair Academy on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give us insights into the school culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's values and recent initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just a good fit, but that we’re genuinely excited about contributing to their mission of holistic development.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. We need to articulate our vision for education and how we can lead and inspire others effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that we’re serious about joining the Sinclair Academy team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Teacher & Pupil Support - Lead & Inspire in Broxburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and the role shine through. We want to see how you can inspire and lead our students, so share your experiences and what drives you in this field.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Sinclair Academy. Highlight your commitment to Catholic Education and how you align with our core values of Aspiration, Integrity, Mercy, and Service.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages about your skills and experiences come across clearly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Sinclair Academy.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Know Your Values
Make sure you understand the core values of Sinclair Academy, especially Aspiration, Integrity, Mercy, and Service. Reflect on how your personal values align with these and be ready to share specific examples during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your approach to leading a team and managing high-quality learning. Think about past experiences where you've successfully inspired and motivated others, and be ready to explain how you would apply that in this role.
✨Engage with the Community
Since Sinclair Academy is part of a growing community, demonstrate your understanding of the local context. Share ideas on how you can contribute to the school’s development and engage with parents and the wider community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle specific situations related to pupil support and teaching. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
