Post Title: Headteacher of Watlington School

Contract type: Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Leadership Scale: L14–L20 (£71,330 -£82,654)

Line management responsibilities: Day to day leadership and operational management of the School 

Start Date: September 2026

Reporting to: The Headteacher is accountable to the CEO of Acer Trust and the Board of Governors

Watlington Primary School is at the heart of the local community, and passionate about providing exceptional learning experiences and wider opportunities beyond the classroom for every child. Watlington Primary School is part of a supportive and collaborative Trust whose big-hearted and ambitious approach aims to empower staff and students to realise exciting futures.

We are looking for a Headteacher who can inspire our children, staff and community to lead us through the next exciting phase of our development with drive, creativity and energy. The successful candidate will be passionate about comprehensive education, collaborative and a motivational and compassionate leader.

What we’re looking for:

• A compassionate and supportive leader who can inspire and motivate our committed and experienced school staff
• An approachable and collaborative communicator
• A leader who shows good judgement and puts children first in their decision making
• Confidence and ability in creating strategies to drive school development
• A commitment to achieving high standards and expectations to ensure that every child is able to fulfil their potential
• A strong commitment to the principles of inclusion, equality of opportunity & diversity.

What we offer:

• Excellent support from a collaborative Trust
• Happy, engaged children who are keen to learn and look out for each other
• A dedicated staff who will work collaboratively in support of a strong leader with the vision and creativity to take the school forward
• A knowledgeable and experienced governing body who will provide support and constructive challenge
• Parents who want to be involved in their children’s education and who work in support of the school
• Opportunities for professional learning, working as part of the Acer Trust Executive Group
• Strong Trust-wide support and professional collaboration
• The opportunity to shape and influence Trust-wide direction through the Trust Executive Group.

Please be advised that references may be requested on receipt of your application. Please state if you wish this to be delayed until shortlisting/interviews have taken place.

Safeguarding Statement

Acer Trust and Watlington School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The Headteacher will require an enhanced DBS check and must demonstrate a deep commitment to safeguarding culture, practice and continuous vigilance.

Visits and Applications

Nathan Thomas, CEO, would be delighted to talk to any prospective candidates in a one to one virtual or in-person meeting. For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact Sariga Mathew on 01865 519215 Ext 810 or email smathew@acertrust.org.uk

Apply via MyNewTerm:

https://mynewterm.com/jobs/147281/EDV-2026-WPS-56563

Closing date: 12:00 on 20th April 2026

Interviews: TBC

Contact: smathew@acertrust.org.uk