Makerfield Academy Trust
, based in the North-West of England and currently comprising Byrchall High School, is committed to providing a rich education for every young person, equipping them for adult life in the 21st century and beyond. The Trust now seeks an exceptional and visionary leader to join the team as its
Chief Executive Officer/Headteacher
.
Key Responsibilities
* Developing and delivering the Trust's vision, mission, and strategic priorities.
* Leading strategic planning processes to ensure alignment with educational, financial, and operational goals.
* Putting school improvement and assessment frameworks in place to ensure the academy delivers high-quality teaching, learning, and outcomes for all, especially disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND.
* Ensuring that senior and middle leaders are supported and overseeing an effective performance management system.
* Promoting best practices in curriculum, assessment, inclusion, and safeguarding.
* Identifying and implementing opportunities for growth, partnerships, and innovation.
* Overseeing the Trust's financial strategy, ensuring viability, compliance, and value for money.
* Working with the CFO to ensure robust budgeting, forecasting, and reporting systems, including for the DfE.
* Overseeing recruitment, retention, and talent development and fostering an inclusive, values-driven culture that supports staff wellbeing and professional development.
* Building strong relationships with key stakeholders, including parents, local communities, and the DfE.
* Managing risk, safeguarding, data protection, and health and safety across the Trust.
Skills and Experience
* Qualified teacher status and a degree (completion of or a willingness to undertake the Trust CEO Development Programme is desirable).
* A proven track record in leadership, with evidence of successfully leading Trust-wide or single school improvement.
* A commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children, with up-to-date safeguarding training and safer recruitment training.
* Pupil-centred with the ability to ensure that pupils are safe and have a positive learning experience.
* Committed to equality and ensuring that disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND thrive and make the best progress.
* Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to a range of audiences.
* A leader of learning, demonstrating, promoting and encouraging excellent classroom practice.
* Inspirational and committed to high standards across the whole organisation.
* Committed to making a difference in the community by working with local partner organisations.
* A clear vision for an innovative academy trust and a passion for achieving the very best outcomes for all children and young people.
Salary:
Leadership Pay Scale L33 – L39B.
Required for:
1 January 2026.
Closing date:
7 September 2025.