Headteacher

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School; Dorking; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A welcoming Catholic primary school in Dorking is looking for an inspirational Headteacher to enhance the achievements of their school. The successful candidate will lead with a strong Catholic ethos and promote a supportive environment for staff and pupils. Key responsibilities include developing strategic initiatives and fostering community relationships. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact in the lives of children and to be part of a dedicated team. Interviews are set for January 30, 2026.

Benefits

Supportive Governing Body

Commitment to professional development

Strong local parish links

Qualifications

• Must be a practising Catholic who understands the nature of a Catholic school.
• Experience in leading primary schools and achieving school improvement.
• Ability to articulate a strategic vision for school effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire staff and pupils in a Catholic environment.
• Develop relationships with local community and stakeholders.
• Commit to continual professional development.

Skills

Outstanding primary classroom practitioner

Innovative school leader

Strategic thinker

Passionate about school improvement

Strong relationship builder

Education

Qualified teacher status

Job description

The Governing Body of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Dorking is seeking to appoint a strong, dynamic and inspirational Headteacher to further the achievements of this welcoming and caring school.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School provides exciting and meaningful learning with a strong Catholic ethos for the pupils aged 4 to 11. The school benefits from strong partnerships with other local schools and is at the heart of the Catholic community in Dorking. We are seeking an individual who will ensure that all pupils and staff are able to fulfil their potential within a caring and supportive Catholic community.

The successful applicant will be :

• A practising Catholic who has a clear understanding of the distinctive nature of a Catholic School and is willing to take an active role in the life & mission of the School
• An outstanding primary classroom practitioner
• An experienced school leader who is innovative and knowledgeable; confident to lead the school in line with the Bishop’s strategy for Catholic Education through a Catholic Multi-Academy Trust before 2030
• A strategic thinker who can develop and articulate an innovative, strategic vision for the school effectiveness, inclusion and wellbeing mindful of the impact of these on pupil outcomes
• Able to support, inspire and challenge staff

Passionate about school improvement and raising standards

• Committed to build on existing relationships with parents, the Parish, the Diocese, Local Authority and wider community whilst fostering new relationships
• Able to identify strengths and weaknesses to further develop the potential of pupils and staff

We can offer you :

A welcoming, Christ centred community with a strong Catholic ethos

A real opportunity to make a difference to the lives of our children

The chance to lead a dedicated and committed staff body

A supportive Governing Body committed to raising standards and strong local parish links

• An exciting opportunity to further develop the School’s vision and successes
• Commitment to your continuous professional development

Interviews to be held on Friday 30th January 2026.

Safeguarding Statement

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The appointment is subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance.