Headteacher
Foxford School
Start date: September 2026
L28-34
Permanent, Full Time
Foxford School, a proud and inclusive secondary school within Castle Phoenix Trust, is seeking an inspiring, principled and values driven Headteacher to lead the school into its next chapter.
This is an exciting opportunity for a leader with strong moral purpose to shape a vibrant culture of belonging, provide clear strategic direction and ensure that every young person and member of staff is supported to succeed.
About Foxford School
Foxford serves a richly diverse community and is deeply committed to inclusion, aspiration and opportunity for all. Learning sits at the heart of school life, underpinned by strong pastoral care, high expectations and positive relationships. The school has much to be proud of and a clear ambition to continue improving outcomes and experiences for its students.
About Castle Phoenix Trust
Castle Phoenix Trust is a values led Multi Academy Trust committed to:
• High quality education for every student
• Inclusive, supportive cultures where everyone belongs
• Collaboration, professional growth and shared improvement
The Trust believes strong schools are built through empowered leadership, coaching based professional development and deep partnerships with families and communities.
The Role
As Headteacher, you will provide clear, strategic and inspirational leadership, shaping and delivering a compelling vision aligned with the values and priorities of Castle Phoenix Trust. You will lead the school confidently into its next phase, ensuring purpose, direction and ambition are shared across the community.
You will place high quality teaching, learning and curriculum provision at the centre of school improvement, securing strong outcomes for all students. Alongside this, you will foster a culture of belonging, inclusion and mutual respect, where every individual feels valued and supported.
A central aspect of the role is leading professional growth through coaching, reflection and supportive challenge, building the confidence and capacity of individuals and teams. Working closely with the Trust, Local Governing Body and partners, you will model collaborative leadership and shared accountability.
You will ensure that safeguarding, wellbeing and pastoral care are embedded across school life, and that resources, data and people are used wisely to secure sustainable improvement.
We are looking for a leader who:
• Has substantial and successful senior leadership experience in secondary education
• Demonstrates strong moral purpose and commitment to equity and inclusion
• Leads with integrity, emotional intelligence and optimism
• Builds trust and inspires others through positive relationships
• Secures high expectations while nurturing professional confidence and growth
• Values collaboration, coaching and shared accountability
• Balances strategic vision with strong operational leadership
• Has a proven track record of improving outcomes for young people
• Is committed to ongoing professional learning
• NPQH (or willingness to undertake it) is desirable.
What We Offer
• A strong commitment to staff wellbeing and professional recognition
• High quality CPD, including access to Trust wide collaboration and development
• Annual Whole Staff Conference
• Benefits including cycle to work scheme, free parking, employee discounts and a laptop/iPad
Foxford is a school people want to work with: ambitious, reflective and focused on excellence. Supported by Castle Phoenix Trust, we offer a genuine opportunity to play to your strengths, grow professionally and make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people.
If you would like to discuss the role further or arrange a visit, please contact the Reception team at Foxford School and ask for Louise Esslemont.
Closing date: 15 May 2026 at 12:00 noon
Interviews: Week commencing 18 May 2026
Early applications are encouraged as the Trust reserves the right to call suitable candidates to interview prior to the closing date.
Safeguarding
Castle Phoenix Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.