INTRODUCTION

Are you ready to lead Hatherop Castle School through an exciting phase of growth and development? Set in one of the most spectacular locations in the heart of the Cotswolds, Hatherop is poised for ever greater success. This is a school on the rise, with a clear and differentiated position, solid financial foundations and the support of a vibrant and entrepreneurial group. This is an opportunity for a dynamic, experienced, inspirational leader to really make their mark.

We’re looking for someone with:

• A clear educational vision consistent with the Adventure of Childhood;

• High standards and expectations of colleagues and pupils

• A clear understanding of customer service and exceeding parent expectations;

• Experience of embedding a culture of excellence;

• Excellent interpersonal, communication and team-building skills;

• A natural leader, who can engage and motivate the whole school community;

• Strong commercial instincts, to lead the further growth and development of the school; and

• Resilience, adaptability and a good sense of humour.

Sounds like you? Read on!

THE SCHOOL

Hatherop Castle School is a co-educational day and boarding prep school for pupils aged 2 to 13, located in one of the most beautiful environments in the country - a stunning rural setting in the heart of the Cotswolds a short drive from Cirencester. Set in 21 acres of landscaped grounds, the school enjoys a reputation for high academic standards within a caring, happy environment. 

Life as a pupil at Hatherop Castle begins in the nursery, which operates year-round and is located in a self-contained walled garden, providing a safe and happy start while also taking advantage of the school’s facilities. With year-round and term-time only options, the nursery provides an excellent start with flexible options for parents.

When pupils move up to the Pre-Prep, they are accommodated in the stable yard, where a vibrant atmosphere of purposeful play and learning can be found. In the Pre-Prep, children don’t just read about the world, they explore it. Whether learning phonics under the shade of ancient trees, measuring puddles in maths, or spotting seasonal changes on their woodland walks, learning in Pre-Prep is active, exciting and full of adventure.

In the Middle and Upper school, pupils build on these solid foundations as they extend their learning and development. Here they shape who they are - curious, confident and creative. It’s where learning becomes an adventure, and school days become full of shared stories and small triumphs. Days are filled with a full and challenging curriculum with expert teaching and wide-ranging extra-curricular activities. Here they build skills, techniques and a love of learning that will serve them throughout their school career. The Castle and grounds themselves play an enormous role the children’s experience, providing a wonderful and exciting place in which to spend their childhood, where they can play, explore, build confidence and take risks in a safe environment.

The school offers a weekly and flexi boarding provision and has ambitions for growth and development in this area. Boarding is accommodated on the top floor of the main school building. Recent refurbishments have created a warm and homely environment.

Children are prepared for entry to a wide range of independent secondary schools including Marlborough, Cheltenham College, Westonbirt, Stowe and Dean Close, as well as Gloucestershire’s highly sought-after grammar schools and local state schools. The school has a highly successful track record of achieving school of first choice and great care and consideration is given to ensure each child enters the senior school best suited to their needs.

The school aims to:

• provide a happy, stimulating and safe environment in which children can thrive and enjoy the Adventure of Childhood;

• challenge, promote and support each child to be ambitious academically, in the visual and performing arts and on the sports field; and

• develop kind, tolerant and confident human beings who are prepared for life after Hatherop.

Since joining the Wishford Schools group, the school has begun an extensive programme of investment and refurbishment, with improvements to classrooms, boarding accommodation and the common parts of the school, as well as upgraded IT facilities and investment in staff. Major investments have included a new Performing Arts Centre and an Astroturf pitch.

Fees are competitive, providing excellent value for money, ranging from £4,180 per term in Reception to £7,250 in Year 8.

The school is in a strong financial position, resulting from careful financial management, good planning and the support and oversight of the group. Pupil numbers have continued to grow despite the challenges of VAT and with the recent investment in new facilities, the school is well placed to continue to expand its pupil roll.