Archdiocese of Birmingham in partnership with The Newman Catholic Collegiate St. Margaret Ward Catholic Academy Assistant Principal Required for September 2025 No. of students on roll. - 1144 (including 103 in the Sixth Form) Group Salary Range L12 – L16 The Board of Directors of the Newman Catholic Collegiate invites applications for the post of Assistant Principal at St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy, Stoke-on-Trent. This is a vital position in our successful secondary school, one which offers an exciting opportunity to grow the role and contribute significantly to the long-term improvement of the school. Applicants must have exceptional leadership and management skills, be an outstanding classroom practitioner and have the interpersonal skills to drive an ethos of continual improvement towards and beyond excellent personal welfare, spiritual development and academic learning. The successful candidate will demonstrate: - A clear vision and understanding of Catholic education. The ability to plan strategically, implement change effectively and evaluate with precision in order to deliver the school’s vision, ethos, priorities and targets. A deep understanding of what constitutes effective knowledge-centred learning and experience of being an excellent classroom practitioner. A thorough understanding of the role of research-based evidence, particularly with regard to teaching and learning. The ability to lead and model bespoke CPD, especially in relation to teaching and learning pedagogical approaches. A strong understanding of assessment and a confidence in analysing data and leading staff to effectively use data. Evidence of the positive impact of their leadership experience. The inclination to remain positive and solution focused. High expectations and aspirations for young people, colleagues and parents. The commitment to continuous improvement of people and systems. A commitment to ensuring a safeguarding culture. The skills to work successfully as a team member establishing effective working relationships and flexible working practices. Experience of following direction, showing initiative and working in collaboration with colleagues, parents, pupils and the school community. The successful candidate will be a leader who will relish the opportunity to join the Senior Leadership Team in their undertaking to transform a good Catholic school into a truly great, innovative and life-changing one. For further details, please contact: Mrs S Bennion Email address: sbennionsmwca.org.uk St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects all its employees to share this commitment. This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Amendment Order 1986 and, as such, it will be necessary for a Submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions. Candidates are welcome and encouraged to visit the school by prior arrangement. Application packs are available from Mrs C Hollins: chollinssmwca.org.uk or from the school website https://www.stmargaretward.co.uk/ Closing Date for applications: Tuesday 6 th May (noon)