Associate Assistant Headteacher – Personal Development

 L8-L11

September 2026 Start

We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, dynamic, and inspirational Associate Assistant Headteacher to lead our academy ethos and values of Care, Aspire, and Succeed through developing and ensuring high standards and the successful delivery of the personal development and wellbeing agenda.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and driven individual, with a passion and drive for excellence, to take the next step in their career.

Working in conjunction with the Senior Leadership Team, the Associate Assistant Headteacher - Personal Development will take primary responsibility for:

• Leading, managing and developing the personal development and wellbeing agenda including SMSC, PSHE, RSE, and careers/work experience provision ensuring pupils benefit from cultural development, wellbeing and enrichment in line with latest Ofsted framework. 
• Support teachers/pupils to drive up educational outcomes across the academy.
• To inspire and motivate students to achieve educational success and ensure outstanding outcomes for all students at Crofton Academy.

 Your application will need to demonstrate that you are/have:

• Substantial middle leadership experience in a secondary environment with strong evidence of success and impact.
• Experience of leadership of a whole academy initiatives.
• An understanding of best practice and experience of planning effective curriculum programmes to improve personal development, FBV, SMSC, pupil wellbeing and mental health.
• The ability to motivate, inspiring confidence in students that they can succeed and achieve their personal best.
• An ability to manage conflict and think creatively to solve problems.
• A personal commitment to inclusion and diversity to ensure the maximum benefits for students and staff.
• Someone who can provide clear direction and shared purpose for all students, staff and stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to personal development for all staff including yourself.

 You will also need to be:

• Supportive of the Academy’s ethos and values at all times both within the Academy and the wider community.
• Committed to inspiring pupils and staff in the development initiatives and strategies, promoting whole academy improvement. 
• An excellent communicator who is at ease with all stakeholders but particularly students and parents.
• Able to demonstrate an ability to be resilient and determined whilst also providing support, demonstrating empathy when dealing with staff in a sensitive and considerate manner.

Crofton Academy, a member of Castleford Trust, is an 11-16 mixed comprehensive of over 1,000 pupils offering a broad and balanced curriculum. Our expectations are high and this is reflected in our very successful academic record. We value and develop our staff by attracting and retaining high quality staff, supporting them to achieve their best and create opportunities for professional growth and development. The team are incredibly proud of the Academy’s achievements and we welcome you to visit our school for a tour to see us in action.

Castleford Trust is a dynamic and inclusive Multi Academy Trust, consisting of nine schools across all phases: three secondary academies, two primary academies, two junior academies and two infant academies. All of the academies are located within the geographical area of Wakefield, forming a medium-sized trust with a strong community feel.

At Castleford Trust, our vision is “Working together to achieve excellence for all.” We are deeply committed to educational excellence, ensuring every child reaches their full potential. Our Trust is an exceptional place to work, offering a supportive and dedicated team of staff who share a common goal of making a difference to the life chances of pupils. We take great pride in developing and nurturing talent by providing extensive opportunities for staff training and professional development. Whether you’re an experienced educator or just starting your journey in education, Castleford Trust is a place where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. You will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS disclosure.

For any enquiries, please contact Kim Hinchcliffe at recruitment@croftonacademy.org.uk. The closing date for fully completed applications is 10am on Wednesday 6th May.  All applications forms should be submitted through the MyNewTerm Portal.