Aldercar High School is seeking a Headteacher to lead the next chapter of a well-established secondary school at the heart of its community.

The school serves a diverse community where education has the power to shape futures. Aldercar matters locally and families care deeply about the school, staff are committed to their pupils, and young people deserve leadership that is ambitious for them and grounded in care.

Like many schools, Aldercar has experienced sustained pressure in recent years. The leader we seek to appoint will bring clarity, consistency and confidence — strengthening behaviour, attendance and culture, while raising aspiration and outcomes over time. This is not about quick fixes or cosmetic change, but about sustained, principled leadership that makes a lasting difference.

We are looking for a credible and experienced secondary leader who believes in the importance of relationships, inclusion and high expectations. You may be an established Headteacher, or a Deputy ready for headship, with a strong moral purpose and a proven ability to lead improvement in complex contexts.

This role will suit someone who:

• Places young people and their life chances at the centre of their leadership
• Builds strong partnerships with parents and carers
• Champions inclusion, with a clear commitment to pupils with SEND and those facing disadvantage
• Leads with integrity, emotional intelligence and resilience
• Is confident making difficult decisions while bringing people with them

Aldercar High School is part of Embark Federation, the largest multi-academy trust in Derbyshire. Embark is committed to creating schools that stand out at the heart of their communities. Headteachers are supported, challenged and trusted, with access to Trust-wide expertise across school improvement, people, finance and governance, while retaining the authority to lead their school.

This is a demanding role, but a meaningful one. For the right leader, it offers the opportunity to shape a school’s future, strengthen a community, and improve life chances for hundreds of young people.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact: Anna Upton on 07973156943. To arrange a school visit, please contact:  Craig Yates on 07947999732.

Closing date: Sunday 25 January
Interviews: 12 and 13 February

To apply, please complete the application via MyNewTerm. Applicants are encouraged to refer closely to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Aldercar High School and Embark Federation are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to all necessary pre-employment checks.