The posting
Holt Farm Junior School is seeking an ambitious, inspirational and highly visible Headteacher who believes passionately in the power of great teaching to change lives.
This is more than a Headship.
It is an opportunity to lead a much-loved community school, shape the future of two neighbouring schools and create something genuinely special for children and families.
Since September, SEEAT has also been supporting Holt Farm Infant School, next door. Subject to consultation and the necessary DfE approval, the intention is for the Infant School to transfer to SEEAT, with the two schools ultimately led through a single leadership team and governing body.
For our new Headteacher, this creates an exciting opportunity: to shape a seamless and exceptional educational journey for children from the age of 4 to 11.
“Holt Farm Junior School provides a happy, caring and welcoming place for pupils.” Ofsted, 2024
That opening line from the school's most recent Ofsted report captures something very important about Holt Farm. This is a warm, caring school at the heart of its community, with children and families who deserve the very best. There is much to build upon. But there is also important work to do.
We need to raise achievement and improve outcomes for pupils. We are therefore looking for a leader who is unapologetically ambitious for every child and understands that great teaching is the main thing - because great teaching changes lives. You will believe that true equity does not mean lowering the bar. It means giving every child what they need to reach it. You will champion high expectations, challenge and teaching to the top, while ensuring that pupils facing additional barriers have access to consistently high-quality teaching and learning.
At SEEAT, we believe children only get one chance at their primary education. We want every child to leave our schools ready for the next stage of their learning and their lives. This role will appeal to a leader who is excited by the prospect of making a significant and lasting difference. Our ambition is to create a truly connected educational experience from Reception to Year 6 characterised by consistency, ambition, care and brilliance.
This is not a role for someone who wants to lead from behind a desk. We want are looking for a visible, hands-on Headteacher who understands the importance of community. Someone who is great on the gate, who will know the children and families, and build strong, trusting relationships with staff, pupils, parents and the wider community.
You will communicate with clarity, inspire confidence and bring people with you. You will be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in, while creating a culture in which people feel both supported and challenged to be their very best.
Above all, you will ensure that every decision is driven by one simple question: What is best for our children?
Applications are welcomed from existing Headteachers looking for a new challenge and experienced Deputy Headteachers who are ready for their first Headship.
You will not be doing this alone. As part of SEEAT, you will work alongside experienced school leaders and colleagues who share your commitment to improving children's lives through excellent education. For the right leader, this is an opportunity to do something genuinely special.
Interested?
If what you have read here, in our recruitment pack and on our website excites you, we would love to hear from you.
We strongly encourage prospective candidates to come and see the schools for themselves. To arrange a tour of the schools, or if you would prefer an initial informal conversation, please contact Sophie Roberts, EA, on 07745 523 469.
Sophie can also arrange a ‘virtual coffee’ with our CEO, Andrew Cooper, and/or our Chief Education Officer, Toni Kittle. This is an informal opportunity to find out more about the role, our ambitions for Holt Farm and what it means to lead a school within SEEAT. For all other enquiries, please contact [email protected].
We reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier than the published closing date if sufficient applications are received. Early applications are therefore encouraged.
