Head of Sixth Form

Overview

Clifton College is seeking an exceptional Head of Sixth Form to provide inspiring leadership at a pivotal stage in our pupils’ education. This senior role offers the opportunity to shape the strategic direction of a thriving Sixth Form, renowned for its academic ambition, outstanding pastoral care and strong progression to leading UK and international universities.

Reporting to the Upper School Senior Deputy, the successful candidate will lead on academic enrichment, pastoral provision, UCAS and international university applications, and pupil recruitment and retention. Working closely with colleagues across the College, they will champion the Clifton Futures programme and ensure every student is supported to flourish as a confident, well-prepared young adult.

This role will suit a dynamic and visionary educational leader with a strong track record in Sixth Form education, excellent communication skills and a deep commitment to student welfare.

Clifton College is part of Clifton College Education Group, and is a leading independent day and boarding school educating over 1,200 pupils aged 3 to 18 years. The College offers day education, flexi and full boarding and is a proudly inclusive and supportive community, with over 40 nationalities represented. Founded in 1862, the College provides an exceptional all-round education that successfully combines a rich heritage with modern state-of-the-art facilities.

Located in one of the most beautiful suburbs of the vibrant city of Bristol, we are proud to offer the finest all-round education based on the highest academic and pastoral standards, and a diverse range of first-class co-curricular activities.

For further details regarding this role, please see the attached job description. Please note that we can only accept applications via our vacancy website application form (which will also allow you to attach your CV or any other supporting information).

Closing date: 20 February 2026

Early applications are encouraged, as the College reserves the right to interview and possibly appoint candidates before the closing date.

Clifton College is committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce that better reflects our community. Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage / civil partnerships. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. Please note, we require candidates to be at least 18 years of age for all roles apart from our lifeguard positions where candidates are required to be 16+ with the relevant qualifications.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are required to share this commitment. Safeguarding is underpinned by a range of policies and procedures which encourage and promote safe working practice across the College. We make sure that all our staff are trained and supervised to a high standard so they can provide safe, effective practice.

All posts are subject to a safer recruitment process which includes the disclosure of criminal records and barring checks, scrutiny of employment history, robust referencing and other vetting checks. Due to the nature of the role, you will need to complete an enhanced criminal record disclosure (DBS check) and undergo our pre-employment screening. As a regulated sector we are required to ask for references prior to interview, by applying for this role you are consenting for us to contact your referees.

Please note that this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore you will be asked to disclose all previous convictions not exempt under amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.