At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire students in a nurturing Catholic environment while managing a dedicated team.
- Company: Wardour Catholic Primary School, a historic institution with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive staff, and a beautiful setting for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community committed to high educational standards and student wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while upholding a rich Catholic tradition.
- Qualifications: Must be a practicing Catholic with leadership experience in education.
The predicted salary is between 58569 - 67898 £ per year.
We are very pleased that you are considering applying to lead one of the longest established Catholic primary schools in the country. Catholic education has been provided at Wardour for centuries with the present school built in the mid-Victorian period set in extensive grounds including a playing field and forest school.
The school maintains close ties with the local Catholic parish of Tisbury and All Saints, Wardour, with children regularly attending Chapel services at New Wardour Castle. Our original building has been refurbished and added to and is a beautiful and fit for purpose environment for the wellbeing of the children and staff. The school is in the Cranborne National Landscape and International Dark Skies Reserve. It is owned by the Wardour Chapel Trust and close to New and Old Wardour Castles. Our exceptional setting is used to enrich the educational experience of the children as well as being a beautiful place to work.
The school collaborates with the local primary schools in our southwest Wiltshire Nadder Hub and the Emmaus Partnership of Catholic schools. The children actively engage in many sporting, cultural and educational activities in the local area and have a very rich education beyond the well-embedded curriculum. Educational outcomes are high and the school has an enviable reputation with an increasing number on roll which is now close to our capacity of 105 children in four classes.
The Catholic ethos pervades the school.
We are looking to appoint an inspirational Head to support the pupils to grow spiritually, emotionally and educationally, in a calm, organised and inclusive environment. You will be a practicing Catholic. You will be an effective leader of a passionate and dedicated staff providing opportunities for them to grow professionally. You will put our children first, prioritise our Catholic ethos, build on our traditions, maintain our standards and lead our staff to provide a rich and inclusive school experience. You will need to meet future challenges, willingly embrace change and work collaboratively. You will be well supported by experienced and enthusiastic staff, Governors, parents, volunteers, Wiltshire Local Authority and Clifton Diocese. You will be committed to follow Bishop Bosco MacDonald’s vision to engage with and lead the school to join the Dunstan Catholic Education Trust in the Diocese of Clifton whilst preserving the unique context of Wardour Catholic Primary School. There is a small teaching element to the role (one day a week).
The Governors have put together a recruitment pack with more details about our school, the job description and person specification. The school website includes weekly newsletters in the parents’ section which give a good flavour of our school.
To apply, please download the application form and click the 'apply now' button below to upload your completed application form and covering letter online. Please note: CVs will not be considered.
If you would like to visit the school please contact our school business manager, Mrs Caroline Robson.
Applications must be made using the Application form for Catholic Schools from the Catholic Education Service.
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check before appointment is confirmed. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Applicants must disclose all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings that are not ‘protected’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 & 2020). An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful applicant.
Headteacher - Wardour Catholic Primary School employer: Wiltshire Council
Contact Detail:
Wiltshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher - Wardour Catholic Primary School
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to explore Wardour Catholic Primary School's website and social media. Familiarising yourself with their ethos, values, and recent activities will help you connect with the staff and governors during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Catholic education! When you're in the interview, make sure to express your commitment to the Catholic ethos and how it shapes your leadership style. Share examples of how you've fostered a spiritual and inclusive environment in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss collaboration! The role involves working closely with local schools and the community. Prepare some ideas on how you can enhance partnerships and engage with parents and volunteers to enrich the children's educational experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the school's future plans or how they support staff development. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher - Wardour Catholic Primary School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with what they're looking for, so make sure you highlight relevant skills and experiences that match their needs.
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and your commitment to the Catholic ethos. We recommend sharing specific examples of how you've led teams or improved educational outcomes in previous roles.
Use the Application Form Wisely: Make sure to fill out the application form completely and accurately. We know it can be a bit tedious, but this is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications. Don’t forget to follow the guidance notes provided!
Submit Through Our Website: When you're ready, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials, and we can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know Your Catholic Ethos
As a Headteacher, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the Catholic ethos that pervades the school. Be prepared to discuss how you will prioritise this in your leadership and how it influences your educational philosophy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Highlight your experience in leading a dedicated staff and fostering professional growth. Share specific examples of how you've supported teachers in their development and created an inclusive environment for both staff and students.
✨Engage with the Community
Wardour Catholic Primary School has strong ties with the local parish and community. Be ready to discuss how you plan to maintain and strengthen these relationships, as well as how you will involve parents and volunteers in the school’s activities.
✨Prepare for Future Challenges
The role requires someone who can embrace change and meet future challenges head-on. Think about potential challenges the school might face and come prepared with strategies on how you would address them while preserving the school's unique context.