Are you a passionate and experienced leader ready to make a significant impact on the lives of young people? We are seeking an exceptional individual with vision, energy and inspirational leadership to join us as Executive Head at Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Primary Schools, providing strategic leadership across both schools. Someone who will uphold our core values and guide our vision of Every Child Achieving in a Great School.

In doing so, you will have the full support of a committed team of enthusiastic and dedicated staff and senior leaders and be fully supported in your role through professional development opportunities and by the Trust's Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Director of Education, School Improvement and local governance.

Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Primary Schools are proud members of the Westcountry Schools Trust (WeST), a vibrant and thriving multi-academy trust serving over 14,000 children and young people across Devon, Plymouth, and Cornwall. WeST is a close-knit family of 31 schools, committed to providing the very best education for our children.

WeST holds a firm belief in giving each child every opportunity to learn and succeed in all that they do. Whilst we are a family of schools who share common values and beliefs, all our schools are unique and hold their own identity. We believe that by working collectively, sharing what works well and jointly developing best practice, we are stronger together and can provide the very best education for our children in our geographical area.

The Role:

As Executive Headteacher, you will:

• Provide outstanding leadership to secure continuous improvement and high standards of education over both schools.
• Inspire and motivate staff and students to achieve their best.
• Collaborate closely with the Director of Education and other senior leaders within WeST.
• Ensure the school's financial viability and promote its profile within the local community.
• Uphold and model the Trust's values, fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic leadership and shaping the future of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Primary Schools.
• Maximising student achievement through high-quality teaching and learning.
• Building strong relationships with parents, carers, and the wider community.
• Managing the school effectively, ensuring compliance with national guidelines and legal requirements.

 What We Are Looking For:

• A proven track record of successful school leadership and improvement at a Headteacher level.
• Deep understanding of primary education and the ability to drive standards.
• Strong commitment to professional development and staff well-being.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A passion for making a difference in the lives of young people.

 Procedures

• All appointments are subject to pre-employment checks. That means:
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of our Child Protection Policy & Safeguarding Policy is attached.
• Your identity will be confirmed by sight of original, official documents such as a Birth Certificate, Passport etc. in line with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.
• Original documents relating to all the qualifications you have listed on your application form must be supplied.
• Your employment history will be thoroughly examined and clarification will be sought where there are gaps or other discrepancies arising from information provided either by you as the candidate or your referee.
• References will be used to check dates of employment and your relevant experience. A minimum of two written references will be taken up and these references will be requested before the interview.
• References should cover the last 3-5 years’ work history, as a minimum.
• An online search of shortlisted candidates will be conducted in accordance with Part Three ‘Safer Recruitment’ of Keeping Children Safe in Education statutory guidance.
• The identity of referees and information relating to disclosures will be verified.
• You will be required to provide details of any relevant unspent or spent convictions in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) Order 1986.
• An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be requested. Please note that it is an offence to apply, offer or accept to do any work with children (paid or unpaid) if disqualified from working with children. Applicants will be challenged where inconsistencies exist. Please be aware that a firm offer of appointment will only be made after receipt and verification of all satisfactory checks. Westcountry Schools Trust will carry out these checks and should you fail these checks, our offer of employment will be withdrawn.

Further details about the Trust can be found on our website (www.westst.org.uk) and on My New Term (https://mynewterm.com/trust/Westcountry-Schools-Trust/142688)