Job Description

Salary: £35,000 Starting Aspiring Head | Location: Barnoldswick, Lancashire | Sector: Alternative Provision (Independent Trust)

The Opportunity: Lead the Future of Alternative Education

Are you an ambitious, values-driven leader ready for the challenge of Headship? Do you believe that Alternative Provision (AP) is a powerful force for change, enabling every young person to thrive?

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a passionate senior leader to step into a Trainee Headteacher role at our Barnoldswick site, within an established, independent trust. You will work closely with our executive leadership to drive our vision of providing exceptional, trauma-informed education for students who need a different approach.

If you have a proven track record of impact in challenging settings and the drive to secure your NPQH, this is the launchpad your career needs.

What We Offer You

  • Aspiring Head Salary: A competitive starting salary of £35,000, reflecting the seniority and future potential of the role.

  • No QTS Required: We welcome applications from outstanding leaders who may not hold QTS. The focus is on your proven leadership, management skills, and alignment with our AP values.

  • NPQH Investment: Full support and investment for you to achieve the prestigious National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

  • Independent Trust Environment: The autonomy and flexibility of an independent trust, allowing you to innovate and respond directly to student needs without the constraints of a standard school structure.

  • Progression: A clear pathway to a substantive Headteacher post upon successful completion of the NPQH and a proven period of success in the Trainee role.

The Role: Impact & Responsibility

As Trainee Headteacher, you will rapidly develop the essential knowledge, skills, and experience required for full Headship, focusing on:

  • Strategic Leadership: Supporting the development and implementation of the site's strategic plan and vision for the Barnoldswick community.

  • Quality of Education: Ensuring a relentless focus on high-quality teaching, learning, and curriculum design tailored for AP learners.

  • Culture & Ethos: Cultivating a safe, inclusive, and therapeutic environment where students are challenged and supported to overcome barriers to learning.

  • Operational Excellence: Overseeing day-to-day management, staff development, safeguarding, and compliance within the independent trust framework.

Are You the Right Fit?

  • Proven experience at a Senior Leadership Team (SLT) level or equivalent leadership role in education or a related field (e.g., social care, youth services, or specialist management).

  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is NOT essential, but a demonstrable track record of successfully leading teams and driving positive outcomes for young people is mandatory.

  • Passion, commitment, and expertise in Alternative Provision or working with vulnerable and disengaged young people.

  • The aspiration, resilience, and capacity to successfully complete the NPQH.

  • Outstanding leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Don't just lead-transform. Apply now and secure your future as a Headteacher.

To apply and for a confidential discussion, please click apply or contact Rachael Boaler on 07423186662 / rachael.boaler@twrecruitment.com

Closing Date: Rolling. Apppointment for January 2026 or sooner.