Headteacher

Job description

About

What skills and experience we're looking for

We, the Governors of St. James Catholic Primary School, wish to invite applications for the post of

Headteacher, following the retirement of our current, long standing Headteacher in August 2026.

This will provide an excellent opportunity for a practising Catholic leader to guide our popular,

well loved, school and its community in its next chapter.

We seek to appoint a Headteacher who will:

• Be a committed practising Catholic with a clear vision and strong dedication to Catholic

education.

• Demonstrate proven leadership skills and a passion for making a difference in children’s

lives.

• Inspire, motivate, and support staff and pupils, while fostering positive relationships with

parents, governors, parish, and the wider community.

• Continue to raise aspirations and achievement through challenge and support.

• Secure and sustain high‑quality teaching and learning, with a focus on long‑term

improvement.

• Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and welfare for pupils and staff.

What the school offers its staff

We can offer:

• Enthusiastic and motivated pupils who are proud of their school.

• A welcoming and caring ethos rooted in the Catholic faith.

• A dedicated and talented staff team, committed to working in partnership with families.

• A supportive Governing Body and strong parish links.

• Opportunities for professional development through collaboration with the Diocese of

Lancaster and wider networks.

Further details about the role

Application Process

Prospective candidates are warmly encouraged to visit the school. Arrangements can be made by

contacting the school office on 01229 772731

Full details of the post and the relevant application form are available on the school’s website:

https://www.stjamesrc.cumbria.sch.uk

All applicants must complete the CES Senior Leadership Application Form and submit it to Rachel

Jewell, Clerk to the Governors at rjewell@holyfamily.cumbria.sch.uk

Electronic applications will require signature prior to interview.

This is a Reserved Post for Practising Catholics in accordance with the guidance of the Catholic

Education Service.

St. James’ Catholic Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of

children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this

commitment. All posts are subject to pre-employment checks and Enhanced DBS clearance.

References will be sought and an online search carried out on applicants as part of our due

diligence.

Closing Date: Monday, 8th February 2027 at 12 noon

Shortlisting: Thursday 11th February 2027

Formal Interviews: Thursday 25th February 2027 and Friday 26th February 2027

Please note that we do not accept CVs or applications from agencies.

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.