Headteacher

Shipston High School

Salary: L18 – L31 (Group
5)
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent

Start Date:

01 September 2026
Apply by: 10.00 am Thursday 12 February 2026

Headteacher

01 September 2026

L18 – L31: £78,702 - £107,131

Shipston High School, Darlings cote Rd, Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire, CV36 4DY

Tel:

Shipston High School is seeking an ambitious and inspirational Headteacher with the vision, energy and determination to lead a good school to the next stage of its development. With a committed and skilled staff team already in place, the school is well positioned to build on its strengths, address its challenges and secure an excellent future for its students.

Located south of Stratford-upon-Avon on the edge of the Cotswolds, Shipston is part of a thriving and growing community. We are proud of our strong local links and are committed to ensuring the school plays a central role in the life of the community it serves.

We are looking for a values-driven leader with a clear and compelling vision for high-quality education who can foster an environment in which both students and staff are supported to thrive.

Shipston High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.

The Governors are seeking to appoint a dynamic, caring and forward-thinking Headteacher who will:

• Provide clear, strategic and inspirational leadership for the whole school community
• Motivate and inspire students, staff and families by promoting high expectations, a love of learning and respect for shared values
• Build on existing strengths by nurturing every student, supporting staff development and embedding a culture of continuous improvement
• Work collaboratively with staff and the Governing Board to shape and deliver the school’s future direction
• Champion a student-centred curriculum that values enrichment, personal development and preparation for life beyond school

The Successful Candidate Will Be Someone Who:

• Demonstrates compassionate, inclusive leadership grounded in strong values
• Has excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, parents, governors and the wider community
• Believes deeply in the potential of every young person and is committed to enabling all students to flourish academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually
• Leads by example and is committed to high standards in all aspects of school life

• Have a clear vision and strategic plan for school improvement
• Bring recent and relevant senior leadership experience within a secondary school setting
• Show a strong commitment to equality, diversity and the school’s vision and values
• Be dedicated to securing the very best outcomes and opportunities for students and their families
• Possess the ability to inspire, motivate and unite the whole school community

• A warm, welcoming and values-led school where students feel happy, safe and encouraged to achieve their best
• A committed, caring and professional staff team who share a passion for excellence and nurturing young people
• Strong partnerships with parents, families and the wider community, creating a genuine sense of belonging and shared purpose
• Supportive and engaged governors, alongside opportunities for professional development and leadership growth

To apply, please complete the SHS Application Form and send it to Lydia Ernst () accompanied by a supporting letter setting out your suitability and preparation for this post, including your reasons for applying, personal education philosophy and vision.

The closing date for applications is 10.00 am on Thursday, 12 February 2026. Interviews will be held over two days on Thursday, 25 and Friday, 26 February 2026.

We would love to welcome you to look around the school before the interview days. If you’d like to come and see the school, do please get in touch with us. To arrange a visit, contact the Headteacher’s PA, Charlotte…