
Headteacher
The Norton Knatchbull School, Ashford, Kent, TN24 0QJ51 days remaining to apply
Closing date
6 February 2026 at 8am
Date listed
17 December 2025
Job details
Job role
- Headteacher
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Working pattern
- Full time
Contract type
- Permanent
Full-time equivalent salary
- Leadership Scale
Additional allowances
Leadership Scale
Headteacher job summary
HEADTEACHER
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to lead one of the strongest state grammar schools in the region. Governors seek to appoint a visionary Headteacher who is excited by the opportunity to lead a high performing school.
Founded in 1630, Norton Knatchbull (NKS) is rated “Good” in all areas by Ofsted (December 2023) and has an excellent reputation for its academic results as well as community engagement. NKS believes that a great education is built on meaningful experiences, high aspirations, and a strong sense of belonging. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, in the lab, or out in the community, students are encouraged to explore, lead, and excel. As the school approaches its 400th anniversary, it remains committed to providing an education that prepares students for academic success whilst at the same time nurtures character, creativity, and compassion.
Governors now seek to appoint an inspiring Headteacher who will build upon the excellent foundations already in place. The post has arisen following the retirement of Mr Ben Greene after seven years of exceptional service at NKS which has seen the school go from strength to strength.
The next Headteacher of Norton Knatchbull will be an ambitious and dynamic leader who can drive strategic impact through working with the talented and dedicated team at NKS. Whilst the school has a rich heritage, it has grown and adapted over time, and the next leader of the school will continue to develop and grow what it has to offer, as well as respecting the traditions on which the school has been built.
Application Process
Should you wish to have a confidential conversation about the role or to arrange a visit to the school, please contact our retained consultant Ross Laird on 07901 585959 or email rlaird@academicis.co.uk
If you decide to apply the closing date for applications is:
9am on Friday 6th February 2026
Shortlisting will take place on Tuesday 10th February 2026
Interviews will take place on Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th February 2026
Please send your completed application to rlaird@academicis.co.uk
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
Further information about the job
Commitment to safeguarding
The Norton Knatchbull School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.
Applying for the job
This school accepts applications through their own website, where you may also find more information about this job.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
View advert on external website (opens in new tab)About The Norton Knatchbull School
- School type
- Academy, ages 11 to 18
- Education phase
- Secondary school
- School size
- 1289 pupils enrolled
- Age range
- 11 to 18
- Ofsted report
- View Ofsted report
- School website
- The Norton Knatchbull School website
The Norton Knatchbull School is a popular and highly regarded selective school for boys aged 11-18 which admits a growing number of girls into its sixth form. Having proudly served the local community of Ashford in Kent since the 17th century, they combine traditional values with a forward-looking and vibrant learning environment where young people are nurtured to become considerate, confident and well-rounded individuals.
School location
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