Assistant Principal (Pastoral) – Mathematics, Physics or Computer Science subject specialism

Who we are

Opening in September 2025, Aston University Mathematics School (AUMS) is a specialist sixth form college dedicated to transforming the lives of talented young mathematicians and scientists across the West Midlands. As one of only nine University Maths Schools in the country, AUMS is a selective state sixth form where every student studies A-level Mathematics and Further Mathematics, alongside either Physics or Computer Science. This focus ensures we attract and nurture the region’s brightest and most capable students. Find out more about our school on our website: www.aums.ac.uk.

AUMS is part of the Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust (AUSEAT), a newly established multi-academy trust sponsored by Aston University. The trust builds on the strong pedagogical foundations, sustained leadership, and outstanding performance of the highly successful Aston University Engineering Academy (www.auea.co.uk).

Through its close partnership with Aston University, the trust provides a unique advantage, seamlessly integrating secondary education, higher education, and specialist STEM pathways. This connection fosters ambitious aspirations, expands career opportunities, and broadens pathways into STEM fields for our students.

Our mission extends beyond the school’s walls. Through outreach work with secondary teachers and pupils, we aim to raise the quality of mathematics education across the region, inspiring a new generation of STEM leaders.

What we can offer you

Joining our close-knit senior leadership team at AUMS presents a unique, once-in-a-career opportunity to shape the culture, ethos, and direction of a brand-new school from the ground up.

You will also benefit from working in a stunning, state-of-the-art building located on Aston University’s campus in central Birmingham. Currently undergoing a £5 million refurbishment, the facilities are being designed to provide a world-class environment for teaching and learning, ensuring that staff and students alike have access to the very best resources.

Our rigorous entry requirements—students must achieve a grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics and pass an aptitude test and interview—ensure you will work with highly motivated, capable, and conscientious students who thrive on stretch and challenge.

We also offer a comprehensive package of benefits and professional development opportunities, including:

• Staff benefits, training, and healthcare package, including reduced-cost membership at Aston University’s Sports Centre, access to Aston University’s nursery scheme and free audiology, eye tests, and health clinics via Aston University.
• A personalised CPD and career development programme.
• Opportunities for higher study and professional development through Aston University.
• Regular opportunities for international visits.

At AUMS, we value the wellbeing of our staff and are committed to ensuring workload and work-life balance are respected, creating an environment where you can thrive both professionally and personally.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an exceptional Assistant Principal (Pastoral) to join our senior leadership team and ensure student wellbeing and personal development are at the heart of everything we do.

Whether you are an experienced senior leader looking for a new challenge or an accomplished middle leader ready for your first senior role, you will bring outstanding pastoral leadership, strategic vision, and a passion for supporting young people. You will have the ability to build strong relationships, inspire students and staff, and create a culture of kindness, resilience, and inclusion.

As Assistant Principal (Pastoral), you will lead on safeguarding, behaviour, mental health and personal development, fostering an environment where every student can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

You will be:

• A sector-leading classroom teacher and subject expert in your own curriculum area, with substantial successful experience in teaching either A-level mathematics and further mathematics, A-level physics, or A-level computer science.
• An inspirational and empathetic leader, with experience in safeguarding, supporting vulnerable students and student wellbeing, and a passion for nurturing young people.
• A skilled communicator, who can foster strong relationships with students, staff, parents, and external partners.

Find out more and apply

Please download the applicant pack for detailed information about the role, including the job description and person specification. For an informal and confidential discussion, contact us at head@aums.ac.uk to arrange a visit or a confidential conversation with the Headteacher, Francis Goodburn.

Applications should be submitted via the TES website form by 12 noon on Monday, 13th January 2025. Interviews are provisionally scheduled for the week commencing Monday, 20th January 2025.

We are committed to equality and diversity. We therefore welcome applications from colleagues from all backgrounds into our community irrespective of their religion or belief, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, marital or pregnancy status.

We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are subject to Enhanced Disclosure clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service and candidates’ suitability to work with children will be explored at interview and confirmed through references for the appointee.