‘Looking for your next big challenge? Ready to lead with purpose across a family of schools? If your answer is ‘Yes,’ this could be your perfect next step.’
We are seeking to appoint an Executive Headteacher to lead our designated secondary schools within Pontefract Academies Trust.
If you have a proven track record of strategic leadership at Headteacher level or above, and have delivered sustainable school improvement, this is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of multiple schools and be part of a thriving and ambitious Trust. You must share our values and be driven to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people.
Your professional development will be a key priority, and you will be supported by a highly experienced network of senior leaders across the Trust.
You must be collaborative, adaptable, and able to balance hands-on leadership with clear strategic direction. Your positive, can-do attitude will inspire and engage students, staff, and families. Above all, you must be passionate about improving life chances and helping young people become outstanding citizens.
We offer a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development.
This is a 1 FTE, permanent contract, to start April 2026 or as soon as possible.
Salary: We offer a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development.
About Pontefract Academies Trust
Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve.
The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Our primary outcomes at Key Stage 2 now sit 24% above the national average, with five out of the seven in the top 5% in the country for combined outcomes. Within the last 12 months, three of our primary schools – Carleton Park J& I School, Larks Hill J&I School and Halfpenny Lane J,I&N School – were recognised as Outstanding across all areas in their most recent Ofsted inspections. Our secondary schools Key Stage 4 results for English, Maths and Science are well above national average and both schools had successful visits from Ofsted in 2024 and 2022.
Additionally, we have just announced an exciting development, a proposed merger with Ark Schools. This is set to take place in Sept 2025, a step that reflects our ambition to grow, never settle, and to do what’s right for our pupils, staff, and community. This change will bring even stronger support, greater collaboration, and more opportunities. We’re excited for what’s ahead and we hope that you’ll be a part of shaping that future with us.
What can we offer you?
We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:
* For the 2025/26 academic year, we will be providing staff with three Everyday Development (EDD) days. These development days will offer you self-directed time away from the workplace to recharge and reflect on your personal and career goals.
* Everyday Development (EDD) Framework: A simple, personal and flexible goal-based approach to continuous learning, career growth and wellbeing.
* Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities
* Generous employer pension (Teacher Pension Fund).
* Laptop/tablet and mobile phone.
* Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance
* Cycle to work scheme, Blue Light card, discounted gym membership
* Free eyecare via Specsavers, childcare vouchers
* Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters)
* Discounts at numerous retailers including O2
* Free flu vaccinations.
Further information and School Visits
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact our Chief Executive Officer, Julian Appleyard OBE, for an informal conversation about the role. Please contact Philippa Dykes (adminsupport@patrust.org.uk) to arrange an appointment.
Potential candidates are also welcome to visit our schools. This is a great opportunity to explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff and get a feel for the vibrant community we have built. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have.
Key Dates
* Application Deadline: 10:00am Monday 3rd November 2025
* Interviews to be held: Thursday 13th & Friday 14th November 2025
* Start date: April 2026 or as soon as possible
Application Process
* Complete an application form in SamPeople Recruit via our website
Important Links
Contact Information
* Tel: 01977 232146
* Email: adminsupport@patrust.org.uk
We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone.
The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare.
Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.