Primary Teacher (Fixed Term Maternity Cover)

Ref: SCH-PAT-0549 

Required for: February 2025 

Primary Teacher (Fixed Term Maternity Cover until 28/02/2026) 

‘Are you passionate about education and eager to make a lasting impact on young minds?’ 

About the role 

We are seeking to appoint an outstanding, enthusiastic, and committed Primary Teacher to join the team at Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School. The successful candidate will demonstrate high quality teaching to ensure pupils can make accelerated progress, securing outcomes through pupils through outstanding provision. You will use effective resources and uphold the highest standards of learning and achievement for all pupils.   

This opportunity is equally exciting for an Early Career Teacher (ECT) or an experienced teacher, providing the chance to become a valued member of a talented and supportive team. 

The role is a 1 FTE Fixed Term Contract from 01 February 2025 to 28 February 2026.  Please note that as this contract is for maternity cover, there may be a requirement to start earlier. 

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic person who: 

• has a passion for helping pupils thrive and meet their full potential. 
• has a friendly manner and can communicate effectively with staff and students. 
• can work effectively as part of a team but can also work independently using their own initiative 
• has experience of working in a similar specialist area 

About Pontefract Academies Trust  

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve. The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Five of our primary schools rank within the top 1% nationally for progress, and our secondary schools feature among the top three secondary schools in the Wakefield district.  

Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School 

Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School embodies academic and pastoral excellence, guided by the mantra 'Strive to be the best version of yourself'. With an 88% combined achievement rate in reading, writing, and maths at Key Stage 2, we ranked in the top 5% of primary schools nationally. Our dedicated staff upholds highest standards and expectations, fostering a positive culture and ensuring every child reaches their full potential and achieves exceptionally well. Securing the 105th spot in the 2024 'Times Top 500 Primary Schools in England' list, further cements our position among the top primary schools in the country. At our larger-than-average, two-form-entry school, we provide every child with the opportunities to thrive in an environment of high ambition and support, whilst equipping them with the life skills they will require to succeed in the future. 

What can we offer you?  

We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:  

• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Generous employer pension (Teachers Pension and West Yorkshire Pension Fund - LGPS). 
• Generous annual leave entitlements paid as part of your annual salary (starting from 26 days annual leave, up to a maximum of 33 days dependent on length of service and grade of role – plus 8 statutory bank holidays).  
• Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance.  
• Cycle to work scheme.  
• Discounted gym membership  
• Free eyecare via Specsavers 
• Childcare vouchers 
• Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters). 
• Discounts at numerous retailers including O2 
• Free flu vaccinations. 

Next steps

Please visit the Pontefract Academies Trust website where you can find the Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028.   

Here you can find Halfpenny Lane J, I & N School website with further information about our visions and values.   

For more information about the role or to arrange a potential visit please contact the school on 01977 703270 or via email at recruitment@halfpenny.patrust.org.uk. 

Completed application forms should be returned via Face-Ed no later than 10:00am on Wednesday 4th December 2024.  

We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone.  

The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare.  

Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.