Headteacher (L19 - L25

What skills and experience we're looking for

Headteacher for 1 January 2027

ISR: L19 - L25

NoR: 495

LEARNING FOR LIFE

Following the retirement of our highly respected and long-serving Headteacher, the Governors of Chapel-en-Frith C of E VC Primary School are seeking an exceptional leader to write the next chapter in our school's success story.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Derbyshire's largest and most established primary schools; a school with a strong reputation, a talented and committed staff team, wonderful children and a supportive community. We are looking for someone with vision, warmth and ambition who relishes both the privilege and the challenge of leading a thriving school.

Our Christian vision underpins everything we do. It shapes our relationships, informs our decision-making and inspires our commitment to ensuring that every child is known, valued and encouraged to flourish. We are proud to be a highly inclusive school where every child is cherished as an individual, compassion and respect are evident in all aspects of school life, and high expectations enable both pupils and adults to thrive.

Whilst many know us for our successful Enhanced Resource provision for children with additional needs, this is just one part of our school. Chapel-en-Frith is first and foremost a vibrant, ambitious primary school serving almost 500 children. We celebrate achievement in all its forms, provide a rich and engaging curriculum, and offer a wide range of opportunities in core subjects and sport, music, the arts, outdoor learning and the wider life of the school.

Our school enjoys extensive grounds and excellent facilities which support learning both inside and beyond the classroom. There is a calm, purposeful atmosphere where children enjoy learning, behave well and are proud of their school. Visitors frequently comment on the positive relationships that exist between children and staff.

Situated in the historic market town of Chapel-en-Frith, in the heart of the beautiful Peak District National Park, the school benefits from the best of both worlds: a stunning rural setting with excellent transport links to Manchester, Sheffield and the surrounding areas. As our community continues to grow, so too do the opportunities for our school to develop and strengthen its role at the heart of local life.

The Governors are looking for a Headteacher who will embrace everything that makes Chapel-en-Frith special whilst bringing fresh ideas, energy and strategic leadership. We are seeking someone who:

• Can inspire and motivate children, staff and the wider school community through outstanding compassionate leadership.
• Builds strong, positive relationships based on trust, integrity and collaboration.
• Has a relentless commitment to high-quality teaching, learning and achievement for every child.
• Will continue to develop an ambitious, broad and engaging curriculum that enables every child to flourish.
• Is passionate about inclusion whilst recognising and celebrating every aspect of our school's identity.

What the school offers its staff

We can offer:

• A happy school with a strong Christian ethos and a genuine sense of community.
• Enthusiastic, caring and respectful children who are eager to learn and make us proud every day.
• An experienced, dedicated and talented staff team who are committed to continual improvement.
• Excellent facilities, extensive grounds and a beautiful Peak District setting.
• A supportive, knowledgeable and ambitious Governing Board, PTFA and very experienced and collaborative senior leaders who are all committed to working in partnership with our new Headteacher.
• High-quality professional development and the opportunity to shape the future of a successful and highly regarded school.

If you are an ambitious leader looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a lasting difference, we would be delighted to hear from you. This is an exciting time to join Chapel-en-Frith C of E VC Primary School, and we look forward to welcoming a Headteacher who shares our values, our aspirations and our belief that every child deserves the very best.

Please also visit our website for further details of the school –

Interviews: 15th and 17th September 2026

Committed to safeguarding the welfare of our children.

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) medical online and social media prohibition from teaching right to work satisfactory references suitability to work with children You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.