Assistant Headteacher (Key stage 5)

Barnhill is a heavily oversubscribed, high performing school that places wellbeing and quality of life at the heart of its ethos. Barnhill performs in and around the top 5% of schools in the country and was judged to be outstanding by Ofsted in February 2024. The sixth form was judged to be a very strong aspect of the school in the inspection.

Early applications are encouraged. If a suitably qualified field applies an appointment will be made straight away.

We have a very well thought of staff wellbeing offer that focusses on allowing staff to concentrate on their work without unnecessary impediment. In addition to this there is a range of supportive measures such marking from home, wellbeing events and staff celebrations.

What we are looking for

In order to further develop the Sixth Form, we have created this new position. We are looking for an experienced middle leader or current senior leader to join the leadership of the school. This role is to lead aspects of the sixth form, which could be in the general strategic and operational leadership (including personal development) and/or with a specific focus on curriculum impact and students’ performance in their qualifications.

This role will build on the existing aims:

· To secure the highest outcomes for students.

· To lead intelligently formulated data analyses and interventions as required.

· To strengthen the sixth form’s culture to match our ambitious curriculum.

· To continue to secure excellent destinations for all students.

· To help promote a culture for students of independence, ambition and leadership.

· To support the development of enrichment and wider such opportunities for students.

The team

An existing assistant headteacher is currently leading on the curriculum intent and implementation. The team also includes a range of experienced and dedicated staff, including a raising standard leader; the head of years 12 and 13 and a deputy head of years; a sixth form manager; a study co-ordinator; and a careers coordinator.

The sixth form is situated in the main school site but has the large sixth form study centre as its hub.

The sixth form

The sixth form has grown significantly in popularity during the past 5 years and now houses over 320 students. About 10% each year are admitted from other schools. Students are very successful in reaching many of the countries top universities, including Russell Group and Oxbridge. The personal development agenda is very advanced and quality of teaching is excellent.

Working at Barnhill

Staff are very well supported by the school’s wellbeing programme and are respected for their commitment to advancing the lives of our students. A key aspect of this is professional development. The school’s ethos ensures that staff are able to work without impediment. Students are very grateful for the education and care they receive. Bad behaviour is not tolerated.

Our staff benefit from a well-being scheme, childcare vouchers, cycle scheme and on-site gym facilities.

The Senior Leadership Team

Barnhill’s Senior Leadership Team is comprised of a Headteacher, associate head teacher, two deputy head teachers, and five assistant head teachers (one of which is this vacancy). The SLT also includes the operations manager and PA to the head teacher and SLT. The team has a rich diversity of skills and experience; each with designated roles for school improvement.

Barnhill’s curriculum

Our curriculum is both academic and life enriching. It is tailored to suit the needs of all students, regardless of their background or need. Our ‘protected cohorts’ strategy ensures that children in receipt of the pupil premium and children with a SEND are fully supported inside and outside of the classroom.

Outcomes are high for all cohorts and across all subjects. STEM subjects are amongst the strongest, with maths being in the top 100 schools in England for student progress last year. Pupil premium children attain a grade higher than their peers nationwide and SEN children make more progress than the national average for non-SEN children.

The sixth form offers 20 academic and 4 applied courses. It is very popular, with our own students and also in the local community. 80 to 90 percent of sixth form students go on to university; a quarter of those to Russell Group and a handful to Oxbridge each year.

Comments from the recent Ofsted inspection

Leaders have high aspirations for pupils

Pupils here show respect for all. They are polite, friendly and confident in expressing their views.

They develop a real interest in their studies.

Teachers have good subject knowledge. They use this well to develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding. They present subject content with clarity and question pupils skilfully.

Pupils learn without disruption. They show very positive attitudes to their learning.

Leaders have designed a broad and ambitious curriculum.

School leaders and governors work with commitment and intelligence.

Leaders have established a strong culture of safeguarding

Further Information -

To apply for this post, please use the 'quick links' on the TES website or email a letter of application and completed application form (available on the school website: www.barnhill.school) to HR@barnhill.school. Applications by post are also welcome.

CVs will not be accepted.

Candidates are encouraged to arrange a visit to the school or speak wih the Headteacher, please contact the Headteacher's PA, Miss D Nash, to make an appointment using email: dnash@barnhill.school.

Barnhill Community High is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

Successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. 

It is an offence to apply for the position if you are barred from engaging regulated activity relevant to children.

Early applications are positively encouraged and the school reserves the right to shortlist and interview earlier than advertised.

Please see link to the Child protection policy

Microsoft Word - Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy - Barnhill _October 2022_.doc (mlp.org.uk)

Please note that we hold the right to carry out online checks on applicants selected for interview.

Closing Date: 21st October 2024

Interview Dates: 23rd /24th October 2024