Here at Iford Academy, we want all our students to recognise and achieve their full potential through both academic work and life skills achievements. We are seeking to appoint an inspiring and dedicated Vice Principal to join Iford Academy – an outstanding special school for pupils Year 7- 11 who present predominantly with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs.

The Vice Principal is accountable to the Principal for ensuring the educational success of the academy within the overall framework of the Trust’s strategic plan as well as the individual Academy’s Raising Achievement Plans (RAP).

The Vice Principal is accountable for supporting the Principal to develop and ensure the quality of teaching and learning, the internal organisation, operational management and for supervision over teaching and support staff. The postholder should create a culture of constant improvement within a collaborative professional learning environment and be an inspirational leader, committed to the highest achievement for all in every area of the academy’s work. 

Main duties & responsibilities

The Vice Principal would be expected to carry out the following duties and to recognise that the list is only indicative and that there might be other, similar duties which might be required to carry out.

The Vice Principal, working in partnership with the Principal, will be responsible for Safeguarding, leading on Attendance and behaviour, leading and managing the orgainsation and raising aspirations, achievement and attainment. 

Experience within a similar setting would be essential, however the successful applicant will need to demonstrate that they can engage with young people and build positive relationships. 

We are aiming for a September 2026 start date for this role but dependent on notice period, we can accommodate a January 2027 start. 

What We have to Offer:  

• Career progression and training opportunities to meet your CPD needs.
• A visible and approachable senior leadership team and an enthusiastic and committed team of teachers and support staff.
• A strong support network both within the school and across Authentic Education.  
• A culture that respects work-life balance and an ongoing commitment to wellbeing with a dedicated Wellbeing Champion.  
• An Employee Assistance Programme including in the moment support and counselling sessions with an external provider.  
• Staff benefits include blue light card, free eye testing for DSE users through Specsavers, free will writing and reduced-price corporate gym membership through BH Live, Two Rivers Meet Leisure Centre and Village Gym.
• A competitive pension through Teachers’ Pensions or The Local Government Pension Scheme for support staff.