DescriptionEmployerLocation
Role: Headteacher
Location: Pyrland School, Taunton
Start Date: September 2026
Closing Date: 9am Monday 9th March 2026
Interview Date: w/c 16th March 2026 (likely dates 18th and 19th March 2026)
Salary: L30 - L37
An outstanding leadership opportunity
Pyrland School is a Church of England over-subscribed secondary school for up to 1050 pupils aged 11 - 16 in Taunton. The school is seeking an exceptional Headteacher to provide visionary leadership as the school enters its next phase of growth and development. This is a rare opportunity for a leader who values high standards in behaviour and conduct of pupils, to combine strategic ambition with operational excellence, ensuring that every pupil can thrive academically and socially.
In this role you will have responsibility for the leadership and management of the school, fostering a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement. You will work collaboratively with the Trust, Local Governing Body, staff, parents and the wider community to secure outstanding outcomes for all pupils and strengthen the school’s reputation as a centre of excellence in Taunton.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Providing clear strategic leadership that secures the school vision and promotes high standards of behaviour, achievement and personal development
2. Ensuring consistently high-quality teaching and learning so that all students make strong progress
3. Developing a broad balanced curriculum including opportunities for outdoor learning and character development
4. Leading robust self-evaluation and school improvement planning aligned with Trust priorities
5. Managing resources effectively to ensure sustainability, efficiency and value for money
6. Building strong partnerships with parents, carers, local schools and community organisations
7. Leading and developing staff to their full potential through effective performance management and professional development
8. Ensuring safeguarding is robust and that the wellbeing of all students and staff is paramount
We are seeking an ambitious and resilient leader who:
9. Holds Qualified Teacher Status
10. Has successful senior leadership experience within a secondary school setting
11. Has a proven track record of raising standards and securing sustained improvement
12. Demonstrates strong strategic thinking and system leadership skills
13. Is an excellent communicator, able to inspire confidence and build productive relationships
14. Has sound financial and organisational acumen
15. Is committed to inclusion equality and ensuring that every pupil matters
Applications are welcomed from experienced Headteachers and from senior leaders ready to take the next step into headship.
We offer a competitive salary, along with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, providing a secure retirement income and family protection. Your terms and conditions of employment are in line with the nationally agreed Burgundy Book, which provides a strong foundation of entitlements. In addition to these national entitlements, we also offer a range of local benefits that support your well-being and professional development, including:
16. A confidential Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
17. Funded continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities
18. Cycle to Work Scheme
19. Free eye tests and flu vaccinations
20. On-site free parking and low-cost catering
21. Teachers also have access to a range of national discount schemes, such as the Blue Light Card, offering additional savings on shopping, travel, and leisure.
Safeguarding Statement
Pyrland School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.