Role Overview

Job Title: Head of School  

Start Date: 1 September 2026

Salary: Leadership Scale 1-4

Hours Per Week: 32.5

Status: Permanent/ Full Time

Closing Date: 12 Noon on Thursday 26^th March 2026

Interview Date: Monday 30^th March 2026  

Rackenford Church of England (VA) Primary School (In Partnership with TEAM Multi-Academy Trust)

This is an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic, talented and ambitious leader to join the thriving community of Rackenford C of E Primary School. We are seeking a proven leader with a strong track record of raising achievement and driving excellence in teaching and learning, who is ready to make a lasting impact within our school and across our Trust partnership.

Rackenford is a rural primary school in the heart of the village and set within a beautiful catchment area, serving children in Key Stage One and Key Stage Two. With 53 pupils on roll and a strong local reputation, our school benefits from supportive families, committed staff and enthusiastic learners who are proud of their school.

As a church school our vision is “let your light shine” inspired by our location and the needs of our community. As a small rural school we encourage pupils who could be isolated to ‘Let their lights shine’ and also to be a beacon of light to others.

Whilst our current Head of School has been appointed temporary acting Head Teacher, the school plans to revert to our Head of School model in September 2026.

This full-time post includes a 0.7 FTE teaching commitment and offers the opportunity to lead by example in the classroom while shaping the strategic direction of the school. We are looking for a child-centred leader who is passionate about high-quality teaching and learning, values teamwork and is committed to the continuous professional development of staff.

The future

We are proud to be in a managing partnership with TEAM Multi-Academy Trust. TEAM has a proven track record of supporting small rural schools https://www.teamacademytrust.com/ . This partnership strengthens our vision, enhances collaboration and provides excellent opportunities for professional growth. The successful candidate will be able to work alongside the Trust’s senior leadership team, working collaboratively with fellow Heads to continue developing and strengthening the school.

The school governors are currently exploring academy conversion with a view to joining TEAM Multi-Academy Trust. Whilst there is no guarantee of timelines, the anticipated date for the transfer into TEAM is the 1^st  September 2026.

Why Join Us?

We offer a welcoming environment where teamwork and professional development are highly valued. In-service training is provided where appropriate.

You will be joining at an exciting moment for our little school as it transitions into academy status and joins a trust that has improving educational standards and the life chances of children across North Devon as its heart.  

We actively welcome visits to our schools. Should you have any further questions or wish to arrange a visit, please contact Emily Budden Acting Headteacher, via admin@rackenford-primary.devon.sch.uk

How to Apply

If you would like to contribute to a school committed to providing outstanding learning experiences for all pupils, please apply via MyNewTerm’s TEAM Multi-Academy Trust Career Page. To submit your application, you will be required to register as a candidate and complete the full application form on their platform, as we are strictly unable to accept CVs.

As this post is advertised on multiple platforms, we reserve the right to interview upon receipt of suitable applications; candidates are therefore encouraged to apply at their earliest opportunity.

Rackenford C of E Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all its staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An Enhanced DBS check will be undertaken and references taken up before interview. All shortlisted candidates are subject to a pre-employment online search prior to interview.