The Swan School is at a defining moment. As we continue to grow, we are seeking an Associate Assistant Headteacher to lead our Sixth Form. This is a role for a strategic thinker who believes that academic rigour and relational care are not opposites, but two sides of the same coin. You will lead a dedicated team to ensure that every student—regardless of their starting point—leaves us with the qualifications and character to thrive in the world’s most competitive environments.

Why this role matters

As Head of Sixth Form, you are the guardian of the "Swan Way" for our eldest students. You aren't just managing a transition; you are designing a two-year journey that bridges the gap between structured schooling and professional independence. You will have a laser-sharp focus on the outcomes of our most vulnerable learners, ensuring that our Sixth Form remains a place of genuine social mobility and high scholarly expectation.

What you’ll bring

• Strategic Vision: The ability to refine and execute a post-16 strategy that balances academic excellence with a rich enrichment offer.

• Expert Leadership: Experience in motivating staff and students alike, using data with precision to close attainment gaps.

• Inclusion Advocacy: A proven track record of improving outcomes and destinations for vulnerable or disadvantaged learners.

• Scholarly Curiosity: A commitment to evidence-informed practice and the ability to model the high intellectual standards we expect from our students.

• Operational Calm: The ability to lead with composure and integrity, managing the complexities of a key role within the school, including UCAS, recruitment, and pastoral care.

The Swan Difference

We recognise that leadership is demanding, which is why we protect your professional agency:

• Absolute Foundations: We have eliminated the "performative" tasks that drain energy. This means no graded lesson observations, no written reports, and minimal after school meetings. Our motivated team works hard, but only on the things that make the most difference to our students.

• Professional Autonomy: You will have the space to lead. We provide the central framework so you can focus on the high-impact work that matters to your students. You will be supported by a Trust-wide commitment to high-quality CPLD.

• New School Environment: our sixth form is still in its early stages so there is ample space to innovate and lead change; we welcome leaders who are unafraid to think differently.

• World Class Facilities: Our school is newly built, with excellent facilities and the Sixth Form Centre is a space of purpose and quiet ambition.

The RLT Connection

The Swan School is proud to be part of the River Learning Trust. Joining us means you are part of a collaborative network of schools across Oxfordshire and beyond. You will benefit from shared professional development, leadership mentoring, and the security of a Trust that values the "Whole Person."

River Learning Trust and The Swan School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and preventing extremism. We are an exempt employer under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

This role includes regulated activity relevant to children. We conduct checks and online searches in accordance with Keeping Children Safe In Education guidance. It is an offence to apply for certain roles within schools if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

For documentation, please see RLT Safer Recruitment Documents. Visit our website www.riverlearningtrust.org for up-to-date policies including our Child Protection and Behaviour policies.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. For further guidance for applicants, click this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-filtering-guidance/dbs-filtering-guide

We actively value the "different contributions" you can make. We want you to be at your best during the application process; if you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know.

Note: We do not accept CVs; please apply via My New Term. We reserve the right to interview and appoint exceptional candidates early.

Three Pathways to Join Us

1. Read more and apply here on My New Term

2. Start a conversation: To arrange an informal chat or a visit to see our Sixth Form in action, please contact Faye Cimmermanis via headteacher@theswanschool.org.uk

3. Talent Pool: Not the right time? Register with our Talent Pool to hear about new opportunities first.