Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more  

Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people.  

We are seeking an exceptional leader who shares our ambition for every child to succeed and is committed to excellence in curriculum, teaching and learning, and pastoral care.

As Head of School, you will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership and operational management of the academy, ensuring that the school runs effectively and that students experience a safe, calm and purposeful environment in which they can learn and thrive.

This is a position of influence, where you will shape culture, raise aspirations, and make a lasting impact. Beyond your school, your vision will contribute to the wider success of the Trust and its reputation within the sector. We value your expertise, experience, and passion to inspire excellence and deliver success for every student and every member of staff.

You’ll work closely with the Executive Principal, to lead the implementation of the academy’s improvement priorities, with a particular focus on the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, attendance and safeguarding. As Head of School you will ensure that systems and routines across the academy are applied consistently, and that staff are supported to deliver high-quality teaching and care for students.

We are looking for someone has successful senior leadership experience within a school, alternative provision, or specialist setting and a demonstrable record of improving teaching and learning outcomes. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping provision, strengthening practice and ensuring consistently strong outcomes for students.

About our Academy

Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy is based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The school is an 11-19 co-educational academy with 1,164 students, including 185 students in the sixth form.

This is a time of great innovation and forward thinking at Cowes Enterprise College. We aim to ‘educate for life’ here and students have an appetite for success, parents are supportive and proud of our work, and staff are committed to unleashing potential.

Our broad, balanced and aspirational curriculum, combined with strong pastoral care means that we can support our students to become successful and responsible 21st century citizens and life-long learners.

Why work for Ormiston? 

Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach – they are our greatest asset.  

We exist to provide the best learning opportunities every day, in every school for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, your work will have purpose and meaning.

Ormiston, where every member of staff enjoys… 

• The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before – being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive 

• Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children – a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve 

• Being part of a team and community where you belong – being part of a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities 

• A supportive environment to grow your career – an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits 

Benefits that care for you 

We value your hard work and dedication, and we’re committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools. 

When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role.

You will have access to an attractive benefits package including:

• School Teachers Pay and Conditions
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme
• Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service.
• Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform. 
• Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Automatic pay progression.
• Flexible working arrangements.

And much more as part of a leading multi-academy trust. 

For further information about this exciting leadership opportunity please contact our recruitment partner, Chris Gartner from Think Leadership, on 07454 679 918 or via email to chris.gartner@thinkrecruitment.co.uk.

More information about this post and the role of a Head of School within Ormiston is available in the accompanying information pack. 

To apply, please submit your completed application by 9am on Wednesday 6 May. Interviews will take place on Tuesday 12 May.

Please note that we reserve the right to close the vacancy early or appoint before the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found. 

Cowes Enterprise College, An Ormiston Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered.   

All successful appointments will be subject to suitability checks in accordance with KCSIE, including identity, Right to Work, qualifications, online searches, prohibition check, two references and enhanced DBS check including Children’s Barred List.  

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. Guidance on the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Exceptions Order 1975, which provides information about which convictions must be declared during job applications and related exceptions, can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-guidance-on-the-rehabilitation-of-offenders-act-1974  

All of our academy policies can be found here: policies