Headteacher

North East Combined Authority; Hexham; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Hadrian Learning Trust seeks an exceptional Headteacher for Hexham Middle School. This role leads a thriving 9–13 year‑old community, guiding improvement, safeguarding, and curriculum oversight within a strong Trust framework.

The successful candidate will implement strategic visions, foster inclusive excellence, and collaborate with partner schools to drive high standards and outstanding pupil outcomes across the Hexham Partnership.

Qualifications

• Be values-driven and passionate about improving life chances for children.
• Inspirational leader with a clear vision for educational excellence and inclusion.
• Proven track record of successful and sustainable school improvement.
• Expertise in curriculum development, teaching and learning, and pupil achievement.
• Strong commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and personal development.

Responsibilities

• Lead Hexham Middle School toward improvement and development.
• Shape curriculum, teaching and pupil achievement strategies.
• Collaborate with Hadrian Learning Trust and Hexham Partnership.
• Support staff and foster a positive, collaborative school culture.

Skills

Values-driven

Inspirational leadership

School improvement

Curriculum development

Safeguarding & wellbeing

Collaboration across schools

Staff empowerment

Inclusion

Job description

School: Hexham Middle School

Employer: Hadrian Learning Trust

Location: Hexham, Northumberland

Salary: STPCD Leadership Range, Competitive Salary

Contract Type: Full Time

Contract Term: Permanent

Start Date: 1 January 2027 (or by negotiation)

Closing Date: Midnight, Sunday 20 September 2026

MyNewTerm Ref: EDV/2026/HMS/64002

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional and inspirational leader with the highest ambitions for children and a strong, proven track record of success as the next Headteacher of Hexham Middle School. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a highly regarded and successful school as it continues its journey of improvement and development, ensuring the very best educational experiences and outcomes for the young people we serve.

Hexham Middle School is a thriving middle school for children aged 9-13 years which serves the historic market town of Hexham and the surrounding rural communities of west Northumberland.

Hexham Middle School enjoys an excellent reputation for its inclusive ethos, high-quality education, strong pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular opportunities. At the heart of our work are the values of Respect, Engage and Aspire, which underpin every aspect of school life and our ambition for every pupil.

The successful candidate will inherit a school with strong foundations, dedicated staff, supportive families and wonderful pupils, while having the opportunity to shape the next phase of the school's development.

As part of Hadrian Learning Trust, and working closely with Queen Elizabeth High School and partner schools across the Hexham Partnership, our new Headteacher will join a collaborative team of leaders committed to securing excellence, innovation and opportunity for all children and young people.

Our ideal candidate will:

• Be values-driven and passionate about improving the life chances of children and young people.
• Be an inspirational leader with a clear vision for educational excellence and inclusion.
• Have a proven track record of successful and sustainable school improvement.
• Demonstrate expertise in curriculum development, teaching and learning, and pupil achievement.
• Have a strong commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and personal development.
• Be committed to collaboration and partnership working across schools and the Trust.
• Inspire, challenge and empower staff while fostering a positive and supportive culture.
• Share our belief in education in its broadest sense and the importance of developing confident, resilient and aspirational young people.

We will provide you with:

• Friendly, enthusiastic and inspiring pupils who are eager to learn.
• A talented, loyal and committed staff team that places children at the centre of everything it does.
• A successful school with a strong reputation and a clear set of values.
• Excellent facilities on a modern campus shared with Queen Elizabeth High School.
• Close working relationships across Hadrian Learning Trust and the Hexham Partnership.
• A supportive and ambitious Trust Board and Executive Team.
• High-quality professional development and leadership support.

Interview dates: Thursday 24 and Friday 25 September 2026

Hadrian Learning Trust and Hexham Middle School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, online searches and other pre-employment safeguarding checks. As the preferred candidate for Headteacher, you will also be subject to a Section 128 check.

Hadrian Learning Trust is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Respect. Engage. Aspire.