Assistant Principal - Curriculum & Teaching (Key Stage 3)
Paignton Academy, Paignton, Devon, TQ3 3WA31 days remaining to apply
Start date details
September 2026
Closing date
20 April 2026 at 11:59pm
Date listed
20 March 2026
Job details
Job role
- Assistant headteacher
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Key stage
- Key stage 3
Working pattern
- Full time
Contract type
- Permanent
Full-time equivalent salary
- Leadership Scale 13-17 - £69596 - £76,772
What skills and experience we're looking for
Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
Due to the promotion of the current post holder to Headship at another school, Paignton Academy is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, dynamic and dedicated Assistant Principal to join our senior leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding practitioner with a proven track record to make a significant impact across the Academy.
About the Role
The Assistant PrincipalCurriculum & Teaching (Key Stage3)will play a key role in the strategic leadershipand day-to-day management of the school, with a clear focus on securing strong academic outcomes for all pupils. The postholder will lead on raising attainment and progress at Key Stage 3 so that all pupils are prepared for GCSE/L2 study orbespoke alternative curriculum can be provided.Under the direction of thePrincipal and Deputy Principals,the post holderwill have strategic overview of student dataat Key Stage 3through an evidence-led approachusing sharp assessment, diagnosticanalysisandhigh-qualityteaching to translate systems into measurable impact.The Assistant Principal will work to develop a culture of academic excellence in which all students are encouraged to be theirbestselves.They will help develop an ethos ofhigh expectationsfor staff and students and lead on ensuring that assessment and reportingat Key Stage 3is a priority for all staff.
About You
We are looking for an individual who:
- Ambitious, hardworking and committed to the school’s values and vision.
- Have an exemplary and proventrack recordof leading on aspects of school improvement,particularly in data systems,reportingand assessment.
- Proven experience of successful leadership and management in a relevant school environment, at senior middle leader level or equivalent.
- Proven experience of sustained excellent performance as a classroom teacher
- Proven experience of successful leadership strategies to raise the standard of learning and teaching and an excellent knowledge of current research into effective pedagogy
- Act as an inspiring role model for the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.
- Is an inspiring and visible leader with a commitment to high quality teaching and learning.
- Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong, positive relationships.
- Shows resilience, strategic thinking and a passion for improving outcomes for all learners.
- Is committed to contributing fully to the life and leadership of Paignton Academy.
We would be delighted to hear from you if you are ready to progress your career within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
What the school offers its staff
Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?
We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:
Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.
Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
TSAT Benefits Portal:A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
Blue Light Card:Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
Further information about the job
Commitment to safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
Applying for the job
Apply for the job by following the link below.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
View advert on school website (opens in new tab)Additional documents
If you need these documents in an accessible format, please contact the school.
About Paignton Academy
- School type
- Academy, ages 11 to 16
- Education phase
- Secondary school
- School size
- 1582 pupils enrolled
- Age range
- 11 to 16
- Ofsted report
- View Ofsted report
- School website
- Paignton Academy website
- Email address
- tracy.pocock@tsatrust.org.uk
At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally, and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient, and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.
Paignton Academy is on a significant improvement journey which was recognised in its most recent Ofsted report (December 2024):
The school has redesigned its curriculum to be broad and ambitious. The knowledge pupils will learn is organised in a logical order. The impact of these improvements is evident in key stage 3, where pupils demonstrate they know and remember more of what they have been taught.
Since the previous inspection, the quality of provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has improved. Pupils’ needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place. Teachers have a growing understanding of how to adapt their teaching successfully for the benefit of these pupils. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are included in the wider life of the school.
Pupils’ behaviour has improved. Lessons are calm and purposeful. The ‘speak up, speak out’ campaign has led to more pupils feeling confident to report concerns.
Arranging a visit to Paignton Academy
To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email tracy.pocock@tsatrust.org.uk.
School location
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