Trainee Headteacher I Barnoldswick

Tradewind Recruitment; Salterforth; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent education trust in Barnoldswick is seeking a Trainee Headteacher to lead a transformative educational environment for students. The role offers a competitive salary of £35,000 and full support for achieving the NPQH. Ideal candidates should possess strong leadership skills and a passion for working with vulnerable young people. This position allows for significant career progression upon successful completion of training.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Full support for NPQH investment

Autonomy within an independent trust

Qualifications

• Proven experience at a Senior Leadership Team level or equivalent leadership role.
• Demonstrable track record of successfully leading teams and driving positive outcomes.
• Ability to complete the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

Responsibilities

• Support the development and implementation of the site's strategic plan.
• Ensure high-quality teaching tailored for Alternative Provision learners.
• Oversee day-to-day management and compliance within the trust framework.

Skills

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Understanding of Alternative Provision

Job description

Salary: £35,000 Starting Aspiring Head | Location: Barnoldswick, Lancashire | Sector: Alternative Provision (Independent Trust)

The Opportunity: Lead the Future of Alternative Education

Are you an ambitious, values‑driven leader ready for the challenge of Headship? Do you believe that Alternative Provision (AP) is a powerful force for change, enabling every young person to thrive?

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a passionate senior leader to step into a Trainee Headteacher role at our Barnoldswick site, within an established, independent trust. You will work closely with our executive leadership to drive our vision of providing exceptional, trauma‑informed education for students who need a different approach.

If you have a proven track record of impact in challenging settings and the drive to secure your NPQH, this is the launchpad your career needs.

What We Offer You

• Aspiring Head Salary: A competitive starting salary of £35,000, reflecting the seniority and future potential of the role.
• No QTS Required: We welcome applications from outstanding leaders who may not hold QTS. The focus is on your proven leadership, management skills, and alignment with our AP values.
• NPQH Investment: Full support and investment for you to achieve the prestigious National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).
• Independent Trust Environment: The autonomy and flexibility of an independent trust, allowing you to innovate and respond directly to student needs without the constraints of a standard school structure.
• Progression: A clear pathway to a substantive Headteacher post upon successful completion of the NPQH and a proven period of success in the Trainee role.

The Role: Impact & Responsibility

As Trainee Headteacher, you will rapidly develop the essential knowledge, skills, and experience required for full Headship, focusing on:

• Strategic Leadership: Supporting the development and implementation of the site's strategic plan and vision for the Barnoldswick community.
• Quality of Education: Ensuring a relentless focus on high-quality teaching, learning, and curriculum design tailored for AP learners.
• Culture & Ethos: Cultivating a safe, inclusive, and therapeutic environment where students are challenged and supported to overcome barriers to learning.
• Operational Excellence: Overseeing day‑to‑day management, staff development, safeguarding, and compliance within the independent trust framework.

Are You the Right Fit?

• Proven experience at a Senior Leadership Team (SLT) level or equivalent leadership role in education or a related field (e.g., social care, youth services, or specialist management).
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is NOT essential, but a demonstrable track record of successfully leading teams and driving positive outcomes for young people is mandatory.
• Passion, commitment, and expertise in Alternative Provision or working with vulnerable and disengaged young people.
• The aspiration, resilience, and capacity to successfully complete the NPQH.
• Outstanding leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Don't just lead-transform. Apply now and secure your future as a Headteacher.

To apply and for a confidential discussion, please click apply or contact Rachael Boaler on (phone number removed) / (url removed).

Closing Date: Rolling. Appointment for January 2026 or sooner