Overview
Join to apply for the Head of School role at Lift Schools
Position: Head of School – Lift Hamford
Location: Elm Tree Avenue, Walton on the Naze, Essex, CO14 8TE, United Kingdom
Salary: L15-L19, £73,105 - £80,655 (negotiable for an exceptional candidate) plus relocation package
Start date: January 2026 or earlier if possible
We are looking for an exceptional Head of School to join Lift Hamford, a leader who can inspire, develop, and drive excellence, working alongside our Executive Principal to shape the next exciting chapter in our journey.
About Lift Hamford
Located in the coastal town of Walton-on-the-Naze, Lift Hamford is a welcoming two-form entry primary school where every child is encouraged to thrive. We are passionate about unlocking potential, nurturing curiosity, and instilling a lifelong love of learning. From January 2026, we will open a brand new 40-place nursery for 2–4 year olds, marking an exciting new era for our school. Our facilities include:
* A modern building for Years 5 and 6 (opened in 2020)
* Extensive outdoor grounds
* A dedicated Wellbeing Hub
* An Autism Support Centre funded by Essex County Council
We are proud of our strong team culture, with 15 dedicated teachers, skilled teaching assistants in every year group, and a leadership team that prioritises pupils in every decision we make.
Responsibilities
* Lead the successful launch of our new nursery, ensuring it meets the needs of our community.
* Oversee the delivery of excellent teaching and learning across the school.
* Foster a culture where staff and pupils can thrive.
* Strengthen relationships with parents and the local community.
* Maintain high expectations and drive school improvement in partnership with the wider leadership team.
What We’re Looking For / Qualifications
* Highly motivated senior leader with a proven track record in primary education.
* Ready to step into headship with the full support of an experienced Executive Principal and a skilled leadership team.
* Self-aware, network-minded, and intellectually curious; committed to evidence-informed approaches to drive success.
* Believes deeply in the potential of every child, regardless of background; capable of leading day-to-day operations while shaping a long-term vision.
About Lift Schools
We are a diverse, inclusive network of 57 schools united by one mission: to deliver an excellent education to every child, in every classroom, every day. We believe every child deserves the best, regardless of background or ability, and we need outstanding leaders to make this happen.
How We’ll Support You
* An individual development account of up to £100,000 over five years
* Experiential learning opportunities, including study tours
* One-to-one unlimited executive coaching
* High-quality, evidence-informed professional development
* A year-long induction programme
* The option of a professional sabbatical after five years
* A relocation package if moving for the role
People & Culture
We’re looking for leaders who are self-aware, network-minded, and intellectually curious. Whether you’re an aspiring principal or an experienced leader, if you are driven, determined, and dedicated to creating lasting change, we’d love to hear from you.
Application Details
For an informal, confidential conversation, please contact Tanya Bentham at recruitment@liftschools.org.
Closing date: Wednesday 24 September 2025
Interview dates: Friday 3 October 2025 (Lift Hamford) and Thursday 9 October 2025 (EdCity, London)
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before applying.
Safeguarding & Diversity
Lift Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils. Online checks for shortlisted candidates apply. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check. We welcome diversity and equality of opportunity. Flexible working options will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer with a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria.
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