About Thameside Primary School

Thameside Primary School, at the heart of South Abingdon, is a vibrant, inclusive, and nurturing community. Praised by Ofsted for putting pupils “at the heart” of school life, Thameside combines high expectations with a strong focus on wellbeing, personal development, and lifelong learning. Guided by the motto “Every Child, Every Chance, Every Day” and the ‘5Rs’—Resilience, Respect, Resourcefulness, Responsibility, Reflectiveness—Thameside provides an engaging curriculum, enrichment opportunities, and a supportive environment where every child can thrive.

We are seeking an inspirational and dedicated Headteacher to lead our school community and drive forward our vision of excellence in education. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to make a significant impact, shaping the future of our pupils, staff and wider community.

About the Role

As Headteacher, you will provide strategic leadership and direction for the school, ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning and pupil achievement. You will be responsible for setting the school’s aims and objectives, establishing policies, and managing staff and resources to deliver outstanding outcomes for all pupils.

You will lead by example, modelling professionalism, integrity and a strong commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Vision

• Develop and communicate a clear vision and strategic direction for the school
• Lead with strong moral purpose, focusing on high-quality education for all pupils
• Translate national and local policy into effective school practice
• Build and maintain positive relationships across the school community

Pupils and Staff

• Set ambitious expectations for pupil achievement and staff performance
• Ensure consistently high standards of teaching and learning
• Foster a culture of collaboration, including open classrooms and shared best practice
• Support, develop and inspire staff, identifying and nurturing future leaders
• Hold all staff accountable for professional standards and outcomes

Systems and Operations

• Ensure effective, efficient and fit-for-purpose systems and processes
• Maintain a safe, calm and inclusive environment with a strong focus on safeguarding
• Oversee staff performance management, addressing underperformance and recognising excellence
• Work effectively with the governing board, providing clear and timely information
• Lead strategic financial planning to ensure best use of resources

Collaboration and School Improvement

• Build strong partnerships with other schools and external organisations
• Promote innovation and continuous school improvement
• Act as an ambassador for education, inspiring others and championing its value

About You

The successful candidate will:

• Be an experienced and passionate school leader
• Demonstrate strong moral purpose and a commitment to inclusion and excellence
• Have up-to-date knowledge of education systems and developments
• Be an excellent communicator with the ability to inspire and motivate others
• Show political and financial awareness in decision-making
• Be committed to their own professional development

Cambrian Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and preventing extremism. We expect all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. All post holders in regulated activity are subject to appropriate vetting procedures and a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Check. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches for publicly available information.

Cambrian Learning Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from a range of backgrounds to represent diversity in line with our schools’ community