Executive Headteacher

Suffolk County Council; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 63,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Otley and Witnesham Federated Primary Schools are seeking an Executive Headteacher to provide strategic leadership across two village schools in Ipswich. This is a unique opportunity to deliver stability and drive development, guiding both sites toward sustained improvement and inclusive practice.

The role requires a warm, clear leadership style, a commitment to SEND provision and high attainment for all. You will lead curriculum alignment, staff development and strong communication across the

Qualifications

• Leads with warmth, clarity and high expectations to inspire staff and pupils.
• Experience adapting curriculum and provision for pupils with SEND.
• Effective communicator who can develop oracy and a culture of confident talk across the school.
• Proven track record of raising attainment or strong leadership potential with impact evidence.
• Reflective, collaborative and committed to professional learning and development.
• Understands curriculum design and assessment and translates strategy into classroom practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead and govern two federated primary schools to secure strong outcomes.
• Drive school improvement priorities across both sites.
• Champion inclusive practice and high expectations for all learners.
• Support staff development and create a culture of professional learning.

Skills

Leadership experience

Inclusion advocacy

Communication skills

Curriculum design understanding

Job description

• Otley and Witnesham Federated Primary Schools
• Address: Otley Primary School, Chapel Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 9NT / Witnesham Primary School, High Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 9LR
• Salary:£63,070 - £73,105 per annum (pro rata), L9 - L15
• Hours:Full time
• Contract:Permanent, Summer Term 2027
• Reference:5380

Otley and Witnesham Federated Primary Schoolsare seekingan Executive Headteacher.

Are you a forward-thinking leader with the compassion and drive to ensure every child thrives?

Otley and Witnesham Primary Schools are seeking an ambitious, yet caring and supportive professional to join our maintained, two-school community as Executive Headteacher. This is a unique opportunity to provide clarity and stability, while shaping the next phase of our development across two closely connected village schools.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact within a context of high SEND need, to lead key school improvement priorities, and to help realise a shared vision of an inclusive community that inspires, motivates and challenges all.

We are looking for someone who:

• leads with warmth, clarity and high expectations, able to inspire staff and pupils alike
• shares our commitment to inclusion and has experience adapting curriculum and provision for pupils with SEND
• is an effective communicator who can develop oracy and a culture of confident talk across the school
• has a proven track record of raising attainment (or strong leadership potential supported by evidence of impact)
• is reflective, collaborative and committed to professional learning and development
• understands curriculum design and assessment and can translate strategy into classroom practice.

We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences who will contribute positively to our inclusive and aspirational culture.

We can offer you:

• a supportive staff team committed to professional growth and best practice, including developing maths mastery, oracy, reading fluency and SEND provision
• opportunities for leadership development and collaborative professional learning
• a role where your leadership will directly influence children’s life chances and daily school experience.

We are looking for leaders who inspire and support staff to create the conditions for every child to succeed, through inclusive practice and high expectations.

We look forward to receiving applications from candidates who will champion our vision of an inclusive community that inspires, motivates and challenges all.

For more information

Visits to our schools are strongly encouraged. To make an appointment please contact the school office by calling 01473 785252 or 01473 890302.

Closing date: 9.00 am, 5 October 2026.

Interview date: 22 or 23 October 2026.