Airedale Academy is a mixed, non-selective, non-denominational secondary school with a sixth form in West Yorkshire, serving students from the ages of 11 to 18. The secondary school, situated in Airedale and has 1100 students on record. It is part of Castleford Trust.
Castleford Trust is a dynamic and inclusive Multi Academy Trust, consisting of nine schools across all phases: three secondary academies, two primary academies, two junior academies and two infant academies. All of the academies are located within the geographical area of Wakefield, forming a medium-sized trust with a strong community feel.
At Castleford Trust, our vision is “Working together to achieve excellence for all.” We are deeply committed to ensuring every child reaches their full potential and that no child is left behind. Our Trust is an exceptional place to work, offering a supportive and dedicated team of staff who share a common goal of making a difference to the life chances of pupils. We take great pride in developing and nurturing talent by providing extensive opportunities for staff training and professional development.
We are in a position to offer an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic, dynamic, motivated and inspirational leader to take the next step in their leadership career.
We are seeking to appoint an Assistant Headteacher to lead Airedale Academy to improve the Quality of Education at KS4, specifically through creating a culture of high performance and by raising educational outcomes for all pupils in Year 11.
This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, motivated and inspirational leader with the passion and drive to excel in their field.
The successful candidate will be based at Airedale Academy
Your application will need to demonstrate that you are/have:
· Substantial senior or middle leadership experience in a secondary school with strong evidence of success and impact.
· Experience of leadership of whole school initiatives.
· An ability to analyse and evaluate data to improve outcomes for pupils.
· The ability to motivate, inspiring confidence in pupils that they can succeed and achieve their personal best.
· An ability to manage conflict and think creatively to solve problems.
· A deep knowledge and clear understanding of educational legislation, new innovation and developments.
· An ability to use the full range of leadership skills and qualities including emotional intelligence as appropriate to the situation.
· A personal commitment to inclusion and diversity to ensure the maximum benefits for pupils and staff.
· An enthusiastic leader, committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for all pupils.
· Someone who can provide clear direction and shared purpose for all pupils, staff and stakeholders.
· A strong commitment to personal development for all staff including yourself.
You will also need to be:
· Supportive of the academy’s ethos and values at all times both within the academy and the wider community.
· Committed to inspiring pupils and staff in the development initiatives and strategies, promoting whole school improvement.
· An excellent communicator who is at ease with all stakeholders but particularly pupils and parents.
· Able to demonstrate an ability to be resilient and determined whilst also providing support, demonstrating empathy when dealing with staff in a sensitive and considerate manner.
As part of our team at Castleford Trust, you will have access to a comprehensive package of wellbeing support designed exclusively for schools, providing access to a team of in-house wellbeing experts, counsellors, nurses and physiotherapists.
Airedale Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. For all positions at Airedale Academy, you are required to complete a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced check prior to appointment.
Application forms can be downloaded from our
website, Completed applications should be
addressed to Andy Percival, Headteacher to the school address or via email to hraat@castlefordtrust.co.uk
Providing suitable interest, the closing date for applications is midday on 23rd April 2025, however depending on the level of applicants, the role may close sooner and interviews may be conducted during the application window. Providing suitable interest, the closing date for applications is midday on Wednesday 23rd April 2025, however depending on the level of applicants, the role may close sooner, and interviews may be conducted during the application window.
We welcome visits to the school, should you wish to arrange a tour please contact
Katrina Baker on kbaker@aa.castlefordtrust.co.uk for the dates and times available. For further information on the school, the role and how to apply please visit .
For further information on the school, the role and how to apply please visit or email Nikky York, Head of HR (Airedale Hub) at nyork@castlefordtrust.co.uk