Headteacher Job Start Date: September 2025 Salary: Leadership Scale points 8 – 14, £59167 - £68586 per annum 32.50 hours per week We are seeking to appoint a person who is innovative, able to work collaboratively with strategic direction whilst keeping the children, staff and the community of Defford and Besford at the forefront of planning and the delivery of education. We are looking for a candidate who can build on the school’s success; who will continue to inspire, motivate and drive the strategic direction of the school alongside it’s highly committed and passionate team. This will also involve leading the changes to become a Primary school. This role will include a teaching commitment. The successful candidate should be focused on the delivery of an inclusive education and support the Christian ethos of the school in line with our visions and values. We can offer you a school with; A healthy balance between teaching and management; A beautiful school site with a thriving Forest School; Children who are happy and confident and have real pride in their school and their own achievements; Highly professional staff who are enthusiastic, innovative and dedicated to a shared vision to be the school of choice in the community; An active and supportive Governing body which is committed to working with the Headteacher to continue the strategic development of the school, whilst acknowledging the significant pressure under which Headteachers in a small school operate. Fantastically supportive parents and a Friends Association. Defford-cum-Besford CE First School is a voluntary controlled school set in a rural location. Please view our website at http://www.deffordschool.co.uk for more information about the school, its achievements and the curriculum. Defford-cum-Besford CE First school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to the receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced disclosure, two positive references, medical clearance and evidence of appropriate qualifications. We actively encourage visits to our school to see just how special our children are and to meet our team. Please arrange directly with the school office by calling 01386 750321. Closing date: Wednesday 26th March 2025 at 12pm Shortlisting: Friday 28th March 2025 If you are shortlisted you will be contacted by telephone. Interviews: Thursday 3rd April 2025