Headteacher of Junior School

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

Akeley Wood School is a dynamic and friendly place to work with numerous opportunities for professional development. We educate around 800 children from Nursery to Sixth Form across three beautiful campuses. We have a progressive approach to teaching and learning and look to recruit high calibre staff committed to achieving the highest standards and to actively take part in the school life. An energetic, flexible and empathic attitude is required to thrive at this forward-thinking school with a strong belief that every child can acquire strategies to ensure they fulfil their true potential. Personal integrity, honesty, energy, stamina and enthusiasm are all essential attributes.

This role is for a Headteacher of Junior School, overseeing the pastoral support and educational outcomes across the 12 months to 11 years age range. You would be a key member of the Extended Leadership Team, reporting to the Executive Headteacher and with line management responsibility for the Assistant Head - Pastoral, Assistant Head - Academic, Nursery Manager and Associate Assistant Headteachers for SEND and Character & Wellbeing.

The Headteacher will lead from the front, be a figure-head for both students and the parent body and support the ambitious growth plans for the school. This is an incredibly exciting time to join Akeley with the school moving forward at a rapid pace.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a Cognita application form, and a covering letter addressed to Vanessa Conlan, Executive Headteacher addressing the criteria outlined in this Candidate Brief and accompanying person specification. The letter should be no more than two sides of A4. A current CV can also be added but it cannot replace the completed application form.

All applications should be

submitted to our Senior Talent Manager, Kamini Chouhan by email, Recruitment@cognita.com

and must be received by 5.00pm - Thursday 15th February 2024.

First Interviews: Friday 23rd February 2024

Final Interviews: Tuesday 27th February 2024

The new Head will be expected to take up the post ideally, September 2024.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. In addition to all other background checks, appointment is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for regulated activity (if you have lived in the UK) and/or Overseas Checks for all other countries in which you have lived or worked (for 3 months or more in any one country in the past 10 years) and your country of origin.