Headteacher – Bristol Free School (BFS)

Location: Bristol

Salary Range (depending on experience): L33-L41

Contract: Full-time, permanent

An Exceptional Opportunity for an Inspirational Leader

BFS is seeking to appoint an outstanding new Headteacher to build on the achievements of Su King who is moving on to new challenges following her eight years leading our thriving and high-achieving learning community.

We are seeking an experienced and effective leader who can inspire, innovate, and drive the continued success of a school which has a strong reputation for excellence, creativity and inclusivity. BFS is the largest secondary school in the Russell Education Trust (RET) and we are seeking to maximise the benefits of a close working relationship with BFS’s largest feeder school, Elmlea (now also an RET school) as well as developing new partnerships by working with other schools in Bristol and across RET.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of BFS, fostering a culture of high expectations, inclusion, outstanding teaching, and a passion for lifelong learning. Our new Headteacher will be committed to developing both staff and students, ensuring that BFS continues to be a place where every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally and every member of staff is helped to develop their professional skills

What We Offer:

• A vibrant and supportive school community with a committed team of staff, governors, and engaged families
• Happy, motivated students who love learning and strive for excellence
• A well-established culture of high achievement, with a strong curriculum and enrichment programmes
• The opportunity to shape and drive strategic growth in partnership with RET
• A commitment to your professional development, with access to leadership support and collaboration across RET’s network of schools.

What We Are Looking For:

       An inspirational and ambitious leader who:

•  Has a proven track record of successful school leadership and driving excellent outcomes for students
• Is passionate about teaching, learning, and curriculum development, with a focus on high-quality education for all
• Can cultivate a positive and inclusive school culture, ensuring that every student is valued, challenged, and supported
• Has exceptional communication skills to engage effectively with students, staff, parents, and the wider school community
• Can work strategically, making evidence-based decisions to drive improvement and innovation.

About Russell Education Trust (RET)

BFS is proud to be the founding school and an essential member of the Russell Education Trust (RET), a family of high-performing schools that share best practices and expertise to ensure the highest standards of education. RET provides strong professional support and leadership development, while still ensuring that each school retains its own unique identity.

Safeguarding Statement

BFS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check, along with other relevant pre-employment checks.

If you are an enthusiastic and dedicated leader ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you!

To arrange a visit, please contact the Headteacher’s PA, Sharon Eynon, at s.eynon@bristolfreeschool.org.uk.

To arrange an informal conversation about the role then please email Colin Mackinlay at ceo@russelleducationtrust.org.uk.

Deadline for applications is midday on 10 April 2026

Interviews will be held week commencing 20 April 2026.