Principal

At Arco Academy, an alternative provision school with a sports specialism and based in Camberwell, we are looking for an inspirational Principal to lead all aspects of our school life. The role will be highly rewarding, working with a small and committed staff team and with students who learn to flourish in our environment. Leading by example, and carrying either a teaching responsibility or DSL role, the right candidate will enjoy working with the CEO to build on the school’s existing foundation, enthusiasm, and ethos to create an exciting future for the school and our students.

Location: Arco Academy, Camberwell

Salary: Competitive

Reporting to: CEO and Advisory Board

About Arco Academy:

Arco Academy is a registered independent alternative provision school with sports as a specialism. Situated in the heart of Camberwell, London, Arco Academy offers education to students referred by mainstream schools and the Local Authority. We have an emphasis in pastoral care and take a holistic approach towards education.

Our aim is to enhance the academic, wellbeing and personal growth for all students of all abilities.

We are committed to high-quality education and promoting our vision to unleash the potential we know exists in all our students, by providing a creative and tailor-made curriculum.

Every student is provided with the opportunity to learn, achieve and succeed to their highest potential. Consequently, we work diligently towards meeting the learning needs of our students. This includes creating an ambitious bespoke curriculum, encouraging participation in sports, development of essential life skills and nurturing a positive relationship  within school and the community.

We believe all staff members play a vital role in the lives of our students. Therefore, we take a proactive approach to the development and wellbeing of all Arco staff. We are committed to investing in all staff through CPD, internal staff support and wellbeing development.

We pride ourselves on appreciating, promoting and celebrating the diversity and individuality of all students, staff and partners.

About the role:

Strategic Responsibilities include:

Establish and sustain the school’s ethos and strategic direction together with the Advisory Board and CEO and through consultation with the school community

Review, consolidate and oversee systems, processes, and policies so the school can operate effectively

In consultation with CEO and Advisory Board, identify problems and barriers to school effectiveness, and develop strategies for school improvement that are realistic, timely and suited to the school’s context

Ensure that school improvement strategies are effectively implemented and that the school is making progress towards achieving its aims and objectives

Manage the school’s resources, including financial, premises and the team appropriately, efficiently, and effectively

Assist CEO and Advisory Board in strategic development and expansion of Arco academy, including securing new premises and enhancing student recruitment

Operational responsibilities include:

Foster and sustain a positive academy culture that reflects our values of respect, integrity, and ambition.

Lead on developing and embedding robust strategies to promote outstanding behaviour and attitudes to learning across the academy.

Shape and oversee the school’s pedagogical practices, ensuring that teaching and learning are at the forefront of everything we do.

Drive the development of a coherent and inclusive curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.

Inspire and support staff in delivering outstanding pedagogy, using evidence-based approaches to maximize student outcomes.

Champion the professional development of staff to cultivate a learning community that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and excellence.

Oversee and ensure the effective implementation of the school’s SEN and Disability policies, working in partnership with the SENCO and other staff.

Effectively manage performance, set high expectations, and ensure that all staff are motivated and supported to achieve their professional goals.

Champion the safeguarding and welfare of all students, ensuring that rigorous policies and practices are consistently implemented.

Work in partnership with advisory board, families, and external agencies to maintain a safe and nurturing school environment.

Work collaboratively with the advisory board, providing clear and transparent communication to ensure robust accountability.

Develop and deliver strategic plans in line with the school’s vision and statutory responsibilities.

Plus, either teaching English (up to 12 periods per week) or taking on the role of DSL