Principal

St Thomas More Catholic Primary School; Walsall; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Great Wyrley, near Walsall, invites applications for a Principal from Easter 2027 (or earlier). The successful candidate will be a practising Catholic, capable of fostering spiritual life, shaping a clear educational vision and a culture of high expectations.

Interviews will follow the closing date. The school seeks a leader who values classroom connection, collaborates with the Catholic Multi-Academy Trust, and drives rapid, sustained improvement across

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development and development of teaching and learning across the school.
• Champion high standards and pupil outcomes, including in areas of SEND and wellbeing.
• Build strong partnerships with parents, parish, and the local community.
• Provide visible, values-driven leadership and safeguarding of every child.

Job description

Principal

For St Thomas More Catholic Primary School

Huthill Lane, Great Wyrley, Walsall, West Midlands, WS6 6PG

Closing Date: Monday 9th November 2026 at 9am

Interviews: To be confirmed

Salary: Leadership Scale L14 - L20

About Us

St Thomas More is a warm, welcoming and vibrant Catholic primary school set in extensive grounds within the historic village of Great Wyrley. Welcoming children aged 3 to 11 from all faiths and backgrounds, we pride ourselves on creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued, listened to and a strong sense of belonging. ‘St Thomas More is a school where pupils know their voice really matters. The school has created a culture of mutual respect, where warm relationships result in pupils feeling valued and happy. The school’s focus on positive mental well-being and developing a sense of belonging support pupils to thrive and achieve well. ’ (OFSTED 2024)

As part of St Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Multi-Academy Trust - a collaborative family of 64 schools - our shared mission shapes everything we do. Inspired by St Gabriel, we form Christ-centred pilgrims of hope who embody kindness, seek truth with bold curiosity, hunger for knowledge, and long for justice.

The Role

We are seeking an inspiring, ambitious, and visionary leader to serve as Principal of St Thomas More from Easter 2027, with the possibility of an earlier start.

This is a unique and rewarding opportunity for a leader who values staying connected to the classroom while guiding a school community.

We are looking for a leader who:

Is a practising Catholic, faith-driven leader who can actively nurture the spiritual life of pupils and staff while deepening parish links.

Possesses a proven track record in successful school leadership with the ability to raise standards and accelerate progress for all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Brings a clear vision for high-quality primary education and the determination to deliver rapid, sustained school improvement.

Values parents as genuine partners in their children’s education and builds strong, collaborative relationships across the community.

Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to promoting and safeguarding the welfare of every child.

Experience of leading and supporting pupils with SEND would be an advantage.

In return, we offer:

Strategic Support: Direct collaboration with an experienced Catholic Senior Executive Leader (CSEL) alongside dedicated School Performance and Transformation Partners to develop your leadership.

Centralised Operations: Dedicated central services for Finance, HR, Estates, and IT—allowing you to keep your focus where it matters most: teaching and learning.

A Supportive Community: A hard-working, passionate team of staff, governors, and trust colleagues working in a happy, caring, and inclusive environment.

Professional Growth: Opportunities to share best practices and advance your career within a large, forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust.

St Gabriel the Archangel CMAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check, medical clearance, and online/social media checks at shortlisting will be required for the successful candidate.