Head of School

Chadwell St Mary Primary School
Location: Grays, Essex
Salary (£): £67,796 to £74,532 or higher for right candidate
Closing Date: Noon on 14th April 2026
Start Date: Easter or September 2026
Phase: Primary
Type of School: Mainstream

Role Managed by

Cressida Johns
Executive Search Consultant
Start Application

About this Role

Inspire. Lead. Shape the Future.

Chadwell St Mary Primary School is seeking an exceptional Head of School to lead our vibrant, ambitious community. Working in close partnership with the Executive Head Teacher, you will play a pivotal role in driving our strategic vision, ensuring excellence in day-to-day leadership, and securing the very best outcomes for every pupil.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced senior leader who is passionate about delivering high-quality education, motivated by the belief that all children deserve to thrive, and committed to shaping an environment where staff and pupils flourish.

This Head of School role has significant career development potential with support to develop the right candidate to a future headship role.

About the Role

As Head of School, you will:

  • Provide inspirational leadership rooted in our Trust’s values and educational vision.
  • Ensure a consistent school-wide focus on high standards of teaching, learning and achievement.
  • Lead with integrity, creating a culture of collaboration, aspiration and professional growth.
  • Drive school improvement through the effective use of data, research-informed practice and strategic planning.
  • Champion positive attitudes to learning and behaviour, nurturing an environment where every child is recognised, valued and supported.
  • Manage and develop staff through robust performance management, coaching, and professional development.
  • Work closely with the Executive Head Teacher, senior leaders and Trustees to embed long-term improvement and maintain high-quality provision across the school.

About You

We are looking for a leader who:

  • Holds Qualified Teacher Status and a strong record of successful leadership, at least at Deputy/Assistant Head level.
  • Has experience of high-quality teaching within the primary or EYFS/KS1/KS2 phases.
  • Demonstrates deep understanding of effective teaching, learning, assessment and curriculum design.
  • Is skilled at using data to drive school improvement and raise standards.
  • Can inspire, motivate and unite staff, pupils and the wider community.
  • Has a proven ability to lead teams, manage performance and support staff development.
  • Is committed to safeguarding, inclusion, and the wellbeing of all members of the school community.

Desirable qualities include NPQH, experience of curriculum innovation, whole-school budget management, and experience working with Trustees or Governors.

What We Offer

  • A supportive and forward-thinking Multi Academy Trust
  • Strong collaboration with the Executive Head Teacher and central Trust team
  • A committed, enthusiastic and talented staff body
  • A culture that promotes innovation, professional growth and work–life balance
  • The opportunity to make a lasting impact on an ambitious and growing school
  • Support to develop the right candidate to a future headship role.