Headteacher

St Denys Church of England Infant School, Ibstock, Ibstock, Leicestershire, LE67 6NL

29 days remaining to apply

Job start date
20 August 2026
Closing date
15 April 2026 at 3pm
Date listed
17 March 2026

Job details

Job role: Headteacher
Visa sponsorship: Visas cannot be sponsored
Key stage: Early years, Key stage 1
Working pattern: Full time (Can be done as a job share): School: St Denys Church of England Infant School, Ibstock Salary: L15 – L21 Size: Group 2 NOR 204 Contract: Full time, start Autumn Term 2026 Terms: Permanent Closing date for applications: Wednesday 15th April 2026 Interviews: Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th April 2026
Contract type: Permanent
Pay scale: Leadership Scale 15 - 21

What skills and experience we're looking for

JOB OVERVIEW:

St Denys CE Infant School is seeking an exceptional, forward thinking Headteacher to lead our thriving, values driven community at a pivotal and energising moment in our development. Following a successful Ofsted inspection in February 2025 and a recent organisational restructure, we are entering a new phase of strategic refinement; one that offers the rare opportunity for a dynamic leader to help shape the school’s future direction while building confidently on strong foundations.

With our current Headteacher moving on after six successful years, we are looking for someone who brings insight, innovation and ambition. Our core vision and values remain strong, yet the planned PAN reduction and structural changes create a unique space for a skilled leader to influence how we evolve; strengthening high standards, enriching the experiences of our learners, and guiding St Denys into its next exciting chapter.

We are seeking a Headteacher who:

Is deeply committed to securing the very best outcomes for every pupil, ensuring that all children thrive academically, socially and personally.
Can enrich and strengthen the culture and climate of our school, nurturing an environment where pupils, staff and families feel valued, supported and inspired.
Has a sharp, evidence‑informed understanding of effective teaching and learning, and can drive consistently high-quality practice across the school.
Holds an unwavering belief that every child can succeed, and leads with ambition, equity and high aspiration for all.
Champions our Christian ethos, modelling and upholding high expectations in all aspects of school life.
Has a clear and strategic vision for continuous improvement, rooted in professional insight, reflection and a commitment to excellence.
Brings excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills, enabling them to motivate others, build trust and foster strong professional relationships.
Has the courage and confidence to lead, challenge and innovate, making decisions that move the school forward with integrity and purpose.
Can drive curriculum development and enrichment, ensuring that learning is broad, engaging and inspiring for our learners.
Builds strong, positive partnerships with parents, the Church, the local community and our family of schools, recognising the importance of shared responsibility and collaboration.
Has experience of leading successful change, including shaping culture, raising expectations and navigating organisational development.
Is committed to their own professional growth, modelling a culture of continual learning and reflective leadership.

This post may also appeal to candidates considering an executive headteacher arrangement. We welcome applications from individuals who are interested in exploring the potential for flexible leadership models, including those with experience of, or aspirations towards, executive or multi-school leadership. If you would like to discuss how your skills and vision could complement the evolving leadership needs at St Denys, please contact the school office to arrange an informal conversation.

St Denys warmly invites prospective applicants to visit the school by prior arrangement by contacting the school office on O1530 260004.

Please see the attached Recruitment Pack for more Information.

What the school offers its staff

Why This Is an Exciting Opportunity:

Strong foundations following Good Ofsted (Feb 2025): Secure quality in phonics, EYFS and curriculum – a solid base to build from.
A pivotal moment for strategic development: PAN reduction enables refined structures, staffing and curriculum design.
Strength in Early Years and Reading: Potential to deepen continuous provision, oracy and outdoor learning.
Committed, values‑driven community: Strong church links, engaged governors, motivated staff and supportive families.
Rich outdoor and experiential learning: Excellent spaces and real‑world curriculum ready for further enhancement.
Collaborative networks: Active involvement in Collaborative 360 offers CPD, leadership growth and shared expertise.
Opportunity to shape culture and well-being: Governors committed to improved communication, relational leadership and sustainable practice.

Further information about the job

The candidate will be required to undergo a full enhanced DBS check and must be eligible to work in the UK.

Visas cannot be sponsored.

If you're interested in teaching or training to teach in England as an international citizen, we can help you understand your next steps.

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment.

Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance.

Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant):
childcare disqualification
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
medical
online and social media
prohibition from teaching
right to work
satisfactory references
suitability to work with children

You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.