Headteacher

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’.

We embrace four mindsets in Europe:

1.We go to together.

We operate with our collective goals in mind. We collaborate widely and share generously.

2.We believe we can.

We take ownership of our responsibilities and always believe there is a way.

3.We stay ahead.

We embrace change to stay ahead.

4.We share a growth mindset.

We are open to new ideas and ways of working.

We are now looking for a Headteacher to lead Long Close School, an independent day school for girls and boys from the age of 2.5 - 16 years. It is the leading through-school in the area, nestled between Upton Court and Lascelles Parks in Slough.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about driving high standards and is uncompromising in their pursuit of high expectations. If this sounds like you, please consider applying. It goes without saying that there is an expectation that every leader is fully committed to ensuring that our schools are safe and compliant in every aspect of their work. We value authenticity – matching one’s actions with one’s words is arguably the most respectful quality in a headteacher. You will be someone who embodies these. You will have a strong belief in the power of reflection and professional development, leading a team that continually evaluates and looks for improvements.

We are particularly keen to read in your application about who you are and how you will improve upon the excellent standards at Long Close School; at the same time driving forward our core aim – the quality of teaching. Please give us examples from your career and your life which exemplify your leadership approach and educational philosophy. We are looking to appoint an individual who thinks for themselves and is a strong and authentic leader.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a Cognita application form and a covering letter addressed to Nicola Lambros , General Manager 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 Monday 1st January, 5.00pm. (Please note the closing date for all applications has been extended from the 18th December to the 1st January 2024)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews on Thursday 18th January 2024. Successful candidates after Day 1, will be invited to meet with Michael Drake, CEO Europe for a final stage interview to take place via Teams.

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.

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 practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.