Headteacher — Lead a Thriving 11–18 Coastal School

Swale Academies Trust; Whitstable; On-site; GBP 98,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive support

Collaborative trust environment

Vibrant school community

Excellent transport links

Job summary

Swale Academies Trust seeks an inspirational Headteacher to lead The Whitstable School, an ambitious 11–18 coastal community. The role focuses on outstanding teaching, strong pupil outcomes, and a vibrant co-curricular offer, including pathways in Performing Arts and STEM.

The successful candidate will drive strategic leadership with exceptional culture, collaboration across the Trust, and robust systems for school self‑evaluation, ensuring excellent learning and behaviour across the campus.

Qualifications

• Puts Teaching & Learning First: Possesses a proven track record of driving dynamic pedagogy and accelerating pupil outcomes at Key Stages 4 and 5 at scale
• Builds Culture & Leadership: Has the talent, empathy, and clarity to motivate staff teams, nurture leadership potential, and maintain exemplary standards of behaviour and attendance
• Drives Continuous Improvement: Demonstrates the grit, analytical precision, and resilience required to refine systems and maintain robust school self‑evaluation
• Champions Community & Collaboration: Acts as an authentic, outward-facing ambassador for the school, engaging parents, local partners, and the wider Trust network.

Responsibilities

• Lead The Whitstable School to sustain high standards and ambitious outcomes for pupils across 11–18.
• Provide strategic direction, school improvement planning, and robust self‑evaluation processes.
• Foster a culture of collaboration with staff, parents, and partners within the Swale Academies Trust.

Job description

Swale Academies Trust seeks an inspirational Headteacher to lead The Whitstable School, an ambitious 11–18 coastal community. The role focuses on outstanding teaching, strong pupil outcomes, and a vibrant co-curricular offer, including pathways in Performing Arts and STEM.

The successful candidate will drive strategic leadership with exceptional culture, collaboration across the Trust, and robust systems for school self‑evaluation, ensuring excellent learning and behaviour across the campus.