Headteacher

Job Description

The Governing Body seeks an inspirational, strategic and values-led Headteacher to lead Copford into its next chapter.

Following the retirement of our long-serving Headteacher, you will inherit a successful, welcoming school with a strong Christian ethos, committed staff, supportive families and enthusiastic children.

We need a leader who will understand and preserve what makes Copford special while confidently supporting its continued development.

Our vision, "I will Grow for Tomorrow's Challenges - Growing in God's Love," reflects our commitment to every child's personal, spiritual and academic development. Compassion, Courage, Friendship, Forgiveness, Justice, Peace and Trust shape school life and our relationships.

We are looking for a Headteacher who will:

• provide ambitious, values-led leadership focused on the best outcomes for every child;
• manage this leadership transition with sensitivity, confidence and integrity;
• respect and build on the school's inclusive Christian ethos, culture and strengths, serving children and families of all faiths and none;
• be an approachable, kind and visible presence who builds trusting relationships;
• demonstrate successful school leadership and improvement;
• champion inclusion, equality, safeguarding and the needs of every child;
• sustain high-quality teaching and a rich, engaging curriculum;
• support and develop colleagues, foster staff wellbeing and manage people, resources and change effectively;
• use evidence and technology thoughtfully to support the school's educational purpose.

We can offer:

• happy, curious children who are proud of their school;
• a warm, welcoming community with a distinctive Christian ethos;
• dedicated staff, supportive families and strong church and community links;
• an active, supportive and committed Governing Body;
• the opportunity to build on established strengths and shape the school's future;
• support for your continuing professional development.

Prospective candidates are warmly encouraged to visit the school. To arrange a visit, request an informal conversation or discuss any reasonable adjustments needed for the recruitment process, please contact Sarah Jenner by telephone on 01206 210439 or by email to office@copford.essex.sch.uk.

For recruitment queries, contact Liz Whitelock on 03330 130777. Further information is available on the school website.

Please read the recruitment pack, job description and person specification before applying online through Essex Schools Jobs. Applications will be assessed consistently against the published person specification. CVs will not be accepted.

Copford VC Church of England Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Headteacher will have a central responsibility for maintaining the school's safeguarding culture and practice. The successful applicant will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including references, identity, qualifications, right to work, an enhanced DBS check and relevant prohibition and disqualification checks.

As part of the school's due diligence, an online search will be undertaken for shortlisted candidates. Any information identified will be considered in accordance with the school's safeguarding and recruitment procedures and discussed with the candidate where relevant. The school is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates of all backgrounds. Selection decisions will be based on the published criteria and the requirements of the role. Reasonable adjustments will be made throughout the recruitment process for candidates who need them.

Information about the School

Copford VC Church of England Primary School is a caring village school near Colchester, with 202 pupils across Reception to Year 6.

Children learn in a calm, supportive environment where the whole child is encouraged to flourish academically, socially, personally and spiritually.