At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant school community, inspiring both staff and pupils.
- Company: Worth School is a prestigious Catholic Benedictine co-educational school in West Sussex.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment with a strong community feel and holistic education approach.
- Other info: Confidential conversations available with consultants; safeguarding responsibilities are paramount.
- Why this job: Join a celebrated school, recognised for its commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
- Qualifications: Must be a practising Roman Catholic with proven leadership skills and a strategic mindset.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 € per year.
Head
From September 2026
Worth School is a thriving Catholic Benedictine HMC co-educational school. With over 600 pupils aged between 11 and 18, at least half of whom are boarders, Worth School is set in a stunning 500-acre estate in the Weald of West Sussex and sits alongside the monastery.
Worth is a remarkable place. Named Boarding School of the Year in 2024, pupils and staff are aligned in their commitment to the Benedictine ethos, culture, and values of Worth. The pupil experience is broad, deep, and rich, with an emphasis on achieving strong academic outcomes within a holistic education that cares as much about the heart and soul as the mind. With its strong family and community feel, Worth provides a nurturing environment for all its pupils and encourages them to achieve their very best and serve others with courage, tolerance, and care.
The Abbot, Chair, and Governors seek to appoint a successor to Stuart McPherson, who has had a distinguished tenure as the school’s Head. The successful candidate will be a committed, practising Roman Catholic, ready to embody and role model the Benedictine values and Catholic ethos. They should be a warm and empathetic person with a strong strategic mindset, vision, energy, proven leadership skills, and the ability to inspire staff and pupils.
For information on the School, the role, and the application process, please visit RSAcademics’ website at https://www.rsacademics.com.
Potential candidates are invited to email one of the following consultants for a confidential initial conversation:
- Sarah Glencross: sarahglencross@rsacademics.com
- Louisa Barham: louisabarham@rsacademics.com
- Claire Oulton: claireoulton@rsacademics.com
The closing date is Monday 1st September 2025 at 10.00am UK time.
• Worth 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 the Disclosure & Barring Service.
• This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013, and 2020.
• The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.
• RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.
#J-18808-LjbffrHead in Crawley employer: Worth School
Worth School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment that aligns with the Benedictine ethos and values. Located in the picturesque Weald of West Sussex, the school fosters a strong sense of community and family, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. As a recipient of the Boarding School of the Year award in 2024, Worth School is dedicated to holistic education, ensuring that both staff and pupils thrive academically and personally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Benedictine ethos and values that Worth School embodies. Understanding how these principles shape the school's culture will help you articulate your alignment with their mission during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members at Worth School or similar institutions. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the school's environment and expectations for the Head role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the school and how you plan to inspire both staff and pupils. Having a clear, strategic plan that aligns with the school's values will demonstrate your readiness for leadership.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to the consultants listed in the job description for an informal chat. This can give you a better understanding of what they are looking for in a candidate and allow you to express your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the School's Ethos:Familiarise yourself with Worth School's Benedictine values and Catholic ethos. Reflect these principles in your application to demonstrate alignment with the school's culture.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a personalised cover letter that highlights your leadership experience, strategic vision, and commitment to education. Make sure to convey your warmth and empathy, as these qualities are essential for the role.
Showcase Relevant Experience:In your CV, emphasise your previous roles in educational leadership, particularly those that involved fostering a nurturing environment and achieving strong academic outcomes. Include specific examples of how you've inspired staff and pupils.
Prepare for Confidential Conversations:Be ready to engage in initial confidential conversations with the consultants listed in the job description. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the school to show your genuine interest and commitment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Worth School
✨Embrace the Benedictine Values
As a candidate for the Head position, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding and commitment to the Benedictine ethos. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your leadership style and how you would promote them within the school community.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your proven leadership skills by sharing specific examples from your past roles. Discuss how you've inspired staff and pupils, managed challenges, and implemented strategic initiatives that align with the school's mission.
✨Connect on a Personal Level
Given the nurturing environment at Worth School, it's important to convey warmth and empathy during your interview. Share personal anecdotes that reflect your ability to connect with students and staff, showcasing your approachability and understanding.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Demonstrate your genuine interest in the role by preparing insightful questions about the school's culture, future goals, and community involvement. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the school aligns with your vision and values.
