Thank you for your interest in becoming the next Headteacher of St. Mary’s Catholic Academy, Blackpool.

This is a significant and exciting opportunity to lead a vibrant and ambitious secondary school at a pivotal stage in its development. We are seeking an exceptional leader with the vision, integrity, and determination to build on our strengths and guide the school towards continued success and excellence.

St. Mary’s Catholic Academy is a diverse and inclusive caring faith community, whose mission is to provide an outstanding whole person education through which all are challenged to grow in wisdom, understanding, self esteem and Closeness to God.

We are committed to providing a high-quality education for all students within our hallmarks of Catholic, Caring, Community and Challenge and pride ourselves on our strong pastoral care, dedicated staff, and a culture that encourages both academic achievement and personal growth.

We have developed our ethos under the heading of “The St Mary’s Way”, incorporating the teachings of Cornelia Connolly, the founder of the religious order the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. The Order’s dedication to education and innovative spirit helped establish St. Mary’s as a cornerstone of our community.

We hope that the successful candidate will share our commitment to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential in “ The St Mary’s Way”.

The Governing Body is looking for a Headteacher who will:
• Provide inspirational and strategic leadership
• Promote high standards of teaching and learning
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and aspirational school culture
• Engage effectively with staff, students, parents, and the wider community
• Demonstrate strong organisational and financial management skills

In return, we offer a supportive Governing Body, a committed staff team, and enthusiastic students who are eager to learn and succeed.

We warmly encourage prospective applicants to visit the school to experience our community first-hand. Please contact Emma Hudson (admin@st-mary.blackpool.sch.uk) to arrange a visit or to request further information. 

Thank you for considering this vocation. If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to make a positive contribution, we look forward to learning more about you and would welcome an application from you.

Please refer to the application pack for the job description and person specification. 

BEBCMAT is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, staff and visitors. All posts are subject to:
● DBS
● Medical clearance
● Verification of qualifications and National Insurance number.
● Two references including a judgement about suitability to work with children.
● A member of the interview panel will be trained in implementing Child Protection procedures.
● In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, online search be carried out.
For teaching positions, barred list checks and prohibition from teaching checks will be carried out.
For leadership positions, section 128 checks will be performed.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday 5th May 2026 – midday
Shortlisting date: Friday 8th May 2026
Interview date: Thursday 14th / Friday 15th May 2026

Post Details:
Salary: Leadership Scale L25 to L31
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Required: 1st September 2026 (or 1st January 2027)