Headteacher

Salary: L19 - L23 (£80,655-£88,951 pro-rata per annum)

Start Date: 1 September 2026 

Contract: Permanent, Full Time 

Thank you for your interest in the role of Headteacher at Horfield Church of England Primary School. The school serves a very vibrant part of the city of Bristol and has a reputation for its friendly culture and development musical and creative opportunities for pupils. The school joined Lighthouse Schools Partnership in August 2025 and prior to that had faced some difficult circumstances that are captured in the Ofsted Report of April 2024. Much has since been done to implement new a curriculum and give colleagues at the school the structures and CPD that they need; this work is ongoing.

This is a school ‘on the up’ and the team are positive about the journey to improve outcomes and provide the children in this fantastic community with the tools they need to succeed. The school is well supported and resourced by a strong partnership with the LSP Central Team to enable leaders to make this journey of rapid improvement. This has recently included the secondment of an experienced Headteacher from another LSP school. The school is just moving into LSP’s managed business service with very comprehensive support for finance, HR and estates matters. 

The Role

We are now looking for a leader who will:

• inspire staff and pupils to be their best by sharing avision of excellence that supports all to flourish

• build strong trust and confidence in and with staff to drive the school’s journey of ongoing improvement

• positively embrace and develop the school’s Christian character in a school serving the whole community

• be ambitious for the school’s future and lead its growth and development

• fully engage in the work of the whole of Lighthouse Schools Partnership (LSP) and bring skills and opportunities to the Trust

• support the continued journey at Horfield with a focus on informed practice in all areas of curriculum and pedagogy to ensure the best educational opportunities for all pupils

• demonstrate a personal commitment to inclusion and diversity

• enjoy celebrating the team’s successes. 

We hope that you are interested and decide to apply. If you wish to discuss the role informally prior to making an application, please contact Neil Lankester, Director of Primary Education.

The Trust

Working as a Headteacher within the Lighthouse Schools Partnership (LSP) offers advantages that contribute to both professional growth and personal well-being. The LSP is a well-established multi-academy trust comprising 34 primary and secondary schools across North Somerset and Bath and Northeast Somerset, serving nearly 13,000 students and 1700 staff. This expansive network provides a dynamic and supportive environment for our Headteachers.

Application Process

The application pack contains much of the information that you will need. However, as this is an exceptionally important process for the school and a significant decision in your own professional career we would encourage prospective candidates to visit the school. You are welcome to visit our school prior to application; to request a visit please email Neil Lankester.

Applications should be submitted through our online eRecruitment system and candidates should attach a covering letter detailing why you wish to apply for this position. This should be submitted online with your application form and should be no more than two sides A4.

Deadlines for applications, addressing the person specification, are to be submitted by 9am on Tuesday 21 April 2026

Proposed interview dates: Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 April 2026

A copy of our Safeguarding Policy can be found on the Trust website.

We are also committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, particularly those from underrepresented groups.