Head of School - DVHS

Aldridge Education; Lower Darwen; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Aldridge Benefits Scheme

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 Vale High School, part of the Aldridge Education family, invites applications for Head of School to drive day-to-day leadership, culture and school improvement in Darwen. The role collaborates with the Executive Principal and trust leaders to deliver high standards and outcomes for students.

The post requires strong leadership, strategic thinking and a deep commitment to inclusive education and community engagement within Blackburn with Darwen and the surrounding area.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school on a day-to-day basis and maintain a strong school culture.
• Oversee strategic planning, policy implementation and improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Executive Principal and Aldridge Education leadership across the trust.

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

These values shape everything we do, ensuring every student receives an excellent education and is ready for the wider world.

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!