Relocation-Ready Principal — Lead a Thriving Primary School

Lift Schools; South Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Induction programme

Professional sabbatical after five yrs

Relocation package

Wellbeing cash plan

TPS pension

Lift Schools benefits

Job summary

Lift Shafton, a friendly and ambitious primary school in Barnsley, is seeking a Principal to lead with vision and warmth. You will build on strengths, drive improvement, and lead teaching and learning across the school, developing a strong, collaborative staff culture.

You will be a visible leader for children, families and staff, working with Lift leaders across our network to shape Shafton’s next chapter. Start Jan 2027 or Apr 2027; closing date 11 November 2026.

Qualifications

• Excellent practitioner and inspiring leader with warmth and strong moral purpose.
• Successful senior leadership experience with a track record of improving outcomes.
• Understands what excellent curriculum, teaching and learning look like.
• Ambitious for every child, regardless of background or starting point.
• Develops people and builds a positive, high-performing culture.

Responsibilities

• Set a clear and ambitious vision for Lift Shafton and drive improvement.
• Lead teaching, learning and outcomes for every child.
• Develop and inspire a strong, collaborative staff team.
• Be a visible, trusted leader for children, families and colleagues.
• Collaborate with Lift leaders and contribute across the network.
• Oversee strategic direction and day-to-day school management.

Skills

Senior leadership

Improving outcomes

Curriculum expertise

People development

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Lift Shafton, a friendly and ambitious primary school in Barnsley, is seeking a Principal to lead with vision and warmth. You will build on strengths, drive improvement, and lead teaching and learning across the school, developing a strong, collaborative staff culture.

You will be a visible leader for children, families and staff, working with Lift leaders across our network to shape Shafton’s next chapter. Start Jan 2027 or Apr 2027; closing date 11 November 2026.