Head of School - DVHS

Aldridge Education; Darwen; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Aldridge Benefits Scheme - exclusive  

Cycle to Work Scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible Working Opportunities

Free On-Site Parking

Generous Annual Leave

Pension Schemes

Refer a Friend Scheme

Job summary

Aldridge Education invites applications for the Head of School role at Darwen Vale High School (DVHS). The post leads day-to-day operations, drives improvement, and builds strong stakeholder relationships within the school and the Aldridge Education group.

The role requires strong leadership, a focus on high standards, and alignment with the Trust’s vision. Two candidate visits are offered before submitting an application, with interviews in Oct 2026 and an expected start in January 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead Darwen Vale High School on a day-to-day basis and implement the Principal’s strategy.
• Build and maintain a positive school culture; ensure policies and systems work effectively.

Job description

Head of School - DVHS

Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK

Contract Type: Permanent

Education Phases: Secondary;

Job Roles: Headteacher;

Working Patterns: Full-Time;

Application Deadline: Monday, 21st September 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 1st October 2026

Expected Working Start Date: January 2026

Visa Sponsorship Available: No

Is a Shared Job: No

About the School:

Darwen Vale High School is more than its recent Ofsted recognition it is a community built on shared vision and ambition.

Guided by the Aldridge principle of "no child left behind" , DVHS strives to be a beacon of excellence in Darwen.

"We champion a safe, inclusive culture of high aspirations and achievement, where everyone is inspired to excel and take pride in all they do. By promoting responsibility, independent thinking and respect for diversity, we prepare learners to thrive as outstanding members of our community."

Our Vale Values:

• We Aim High
• We Work Hard
• We Care

About the Role:

The role of Head of School requires the postholder to lead Darwen Vale High school on a day-to-day basis. Based upon the Job Description for Principal, much of the tasks align with the post of school leader. Some key responsibilities are removed due to the close support and guidance from the relevant Executive Principal, which is far more substantial for a Head of School than a Principal. The Head of School will build and maintain the school culture, run the building daily, ensure that all processes, policies and systems work well and ensure that all improvement required takes place efficiently and effectively.

The postholder builds strong relationships with all stakeholders and works closely with other school leaders and with officers of Aldridge Education. The postholder is line managed by the Executive Principal, who will own and deliver the Trust strategy within this school, along with the group of schools they oversee. The Head of School is a new post and will work closely with the substantive Executive Principal to manage many aspects of school life on a day-to-day basis.

We are offering two opportunities for prospective candidates to visit the school prior to submitting an application. This is a chance to meet the Executive Principal, look around the school and gain a better understanding of the role and our school community.

Visits will take place on the following days:

• Thursday 17th September 2026 at 9am

Key Benefits of working for Aldridge Education :

• Join the Aldridge Education Family!
• Looking for a fulfilling career with great perks? Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
• Aldridge Benefits Scheme - Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
• Cycle to Work Scheme - Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
• Employee Assistance Programme - Your well-being matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
• Flexible Working Opportunities - Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
• Free On-Site Parking - No more hunting for parking, we've got your spot covered.
• Generous Annual Leave - Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
• Pension Schemes - Secure your future with access to the Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Refer a Friend Scheme - Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!