Assistant Headteacher

TES FE News; Castleford; On-site; GBP 69,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Castleford is seeking an Assistant Headteacher to join their dynamic team. The ideal candidate will demonstrate substantial leadership experience in secondary education and have a strong commitment to pupil success. This role provides an exciting opportunity to enhance educational impact within the school community, supported by a dedicated staff and comprehensive wellbeing resources.

Benefits

Comprehensive wellbeing support

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in a secondary school with strong evidence of success.
• Ability to motivate and inspire confidence in pupils.
• Deep knowledge of educational legislation and developments.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional leadership in partnership with the Headteacher.
• Lead school initiatives and improve pupil outcomes.
• Support the academy’s ethos and values.

Skills

Senior leadership experience

Data analysis

Conflict management

Communication skills

Job description

Overview

Airedale Academy is an 11-16 mixed comprehensive with 1,100 pupils on roll. The academy is situated in Airedale, Castleford and recently joined Castleford Trust. Since joining the Trust in February 2025, the school has seen rapid improvements in pupil behaviour and curriculum planning.

Castleford Trust is a dynamic and inclusive Multi Academy Trust, consisting of nine schools across all phases: three secondary academies, two primary academies, two junior academies and two infant academies. All of the academies are located within the geographical area of Wakefield, forming a medium-sized trust with a strong community feel.

At Castleford Trust, our vision is “Working together to achieve excellence for all.” We are deeply committed to educational excellence, ensuring every child reaches their full potential. Our Trust is an exceptional place to work, offering a supportive and dedicated team of staff who share a common goal of making a difference to the life chances of pupils. We take great pride in developing and nurturing talent by providing extensive opportunities for staff training and professional development. Whether you're an experienced educator or just starting your journey in education, Castleford Trust is a place where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

We are in a position to offer an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic, dynamic, motivated and inspirational leader to take the next step in their leadership career.

In partnership with the Headteacher and the Senior Leadership Team, the Assistant Headteacher will provide professional leadership and management of areas of responsibility that will be agreed based on the candidate’s skills, knowledge and experience. Your application needs to express what you will contribute to a senior leadership team, based on your skills, knowledge and experience. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, motivated and inspirational leader with the passion and drive to excel in their field.

Assistant Headteacher

Roles & Responsibilities to be confirmed

January 2026

Salary Leadership L13-L17

£69,596-£76,772

Your Application Will Need To Demonstrate That You Are/have

• Substantial senior or middle leadership experience in a secondary school with strong evidence of success and impact.
• Experience of leadership of whole school initiatives.
• An ability to analyse and evaluate data to improve outcomes for pupils.
• The ability to motivate, inspiring confidence in pupils that they can succeed and achieve their personal best.
• An ability to manage conflict and think creatively to solve problems.
• A deep knowledge and clear understanding of educational legislation, new innovation and developments.
• An ability to use the full range of leadership skills and qualities including emotional intelligence as appropriate to the situation.
• A personal commitment to inclusion and diversity to ensure the maximum benefits for pupils and staff.
• An enthusiastic leader, committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for all pupils.
• Someone who can provide clear direction and shared purpose for all pupils, staff and stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to personal development for all staff including yourself.

You Will Also Need To Be

• Supportive of the academy’s ethos and values at all times both within the academy and the wider community.
• Committed to inspiring pupils and staff in the development initiatives and strategies, promoting whole school improvement.
• An excellent communicator who is at ease with all stakeholders but particularly pupils and parents/carers.
• Able to demonstrate an ability to be resilient and determined whilst also providing support, demonstrating empathy when dealing with staff in a sensitive and considerate manner.

As part of our team at Airedale Academy, you will have access to a comprehensive package of wellbeing support designed exclusively for schools, providing access to a team of in-house wellbeing experts, counsellors, nurses and physiotherapists.

Airedale Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. For all positions at Airedale Academy, you are required to complete a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced check prior to appointment.

Application forms can be downloaded from our website, https://www.castlefordacademytrust.com/

Completed applications should be addressed to Andy Percival, Headteacher at the school address Crewe Road, Airedale, Castleford, WF10 3JU or via email to [e-mail]

Providing suitable interest, the closing date for applications is 8.00 am on Monday 13th October 2025, however depending on the level of applicants, the role may close sooner, and interviews will being held shortly afterwards.

We welcome visits to the school, should you wish to arrange a tour please contact Katrina Baker on [e-mail] for the dates and times available.

For further information on the school, the role and how to apply please visit https://www.castlefordacademytrust.co.uk/