Headteacher

St John Vianney School; Trafford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ST JOHN VIANNEY RC SCHOOL in Stretford is seeking an exceptional Headteacher from April 2027 to lead a Roman Catholic day school for pupils with autism and complex needs. The role requires a practising Catholic with proven leadership and a track record in school improvement.

You will work closely with the Governors and senior leadership to sustain high standards, strengthen partnerships with families and agencies, and continue to build on the school’s good reputation for ambitious provision.

Qualifications

• Practising Roman Catholic with first-rate leadership skills.
• Experienced Headteacher or ambitious Deputy Head.
• Dedicated to improving life choices for all children.
• Committed to partnership with families and other agencies.
• Passionate about SEND, curriculum, pedagogy and creativity.
• Able to lead, manage and inspire.
• Committed to sustaining and developing the school and its Catholic ethos.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school as Headteacher with strategic vision and strong governance.
• Inspire and manage staff to deliver outstanding provision for pupils with autism and complex needs.
• Build partnerships with families, agencies and the Diocese to support pupil outcomes.

Skills

Catholic leadership

Educational leadership

Strategic planning

Partnership with families

SEND focus

Curriculum development

Pedagogy and creativity

Team leadership

Job description

ST JOHN VIANNEY RC SCHOOL
Rye Bank Road
Firswood
Stretford
M16 0EX
Tel: [phone]
Website: www.stjohnvianneyschool.co.uk
Headteacher: Mr A Moloney

HEADTEACHER Required from April 2027
1.0 FTE
Competitive salary to be determined at interview. (Depending on skills and experience)

The governors of this Roman Catholic day school for pupils with autism, learning difficulties and complex needs are seeking to appoint an outstanding Headteacher and proven educationalist with the vision and ambition to lead the school whilst building on its good reputation and continuing to strive for outstanding provision enabling each pupil to be the best they can be.

Each successful candidate will be:

• A practising Roman Catholic with first rate leadership skills.
• An experienced Headteacher or an ambitious Deputy Head ready to take their next career step.
• Dedicated to improving the life choices of all children.
• Committed to partnership with families and other agencies.
• Passionate about SEND, curriculum, pedagogy and creativity.
• Able to lead, manage and inspire.
• Committed to sustaining and developing the school and its Catholic ethos.

We will offer you:

• A lively, creative and inclusive school committed to improving the lives of children & young people.
• A supportive and friendly environment.
• The opportunity to work in strategic partnership with the Governors and members of the senior leadership team.
• An ambitious and hardworking senior leadership team consistently supporting the school on its journey to outstanding.
• A dedicated and enthusiastic staff team to work with.
• A governing body which is supportive and passionate about achieving the highest standards in all areas and committed to the professional development of staff.

St John Vianney School and The Diocese of Salford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to enhanced DBS checks and Disqualification Declaration.

Closing date for applications is - Monday 2 November 2026 at 9.00 am
Visits to school can be arranged during the week of 12-16 October 2026
Shortlisting will take place on - Friday 6 November 2026
Invitations to interview will be sent out by the end of the week commencing Monday 9 November 2026
Interviews are planned for - Week commencing Monday 23 November 2026