Headteacher

Long Close is an independent day school for girls and boys aged 2.5 – 16 years. It is the leading through school in the area, nestled between Upton Court and Lascelles Parks in Slough

Our core and deeply embedded values are at the heart of everything we do, but it is our strong sense of family that truly sets us apart from others. Our children feel safe and secure and there is mutual trust and respect between staff and students. We know and understand each individual child; we know their strengths, what motivates and inspires them, and how to help them achieve their absolute best.

Whilst academic achievement is of great importance and both 11+ GCSE results are exceptional; we know that children aim higher and achieve greater when their well-being is fully valued and supported. At Long Close, this holistic approach, coupled with our optimum and carefully balanced class sizes, enables us to guide our pupils to be their best throughout their educational journey and beyond.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about driving high standards and is uncompromising in their pursuit of high expectations. If this sounds like you, please consider applying. It goes without saying that there is an expectation that every leader is fully committed to ensuring that our schools are safe and compliant in every aspect of their work. We value authenticity – matching one’s actions with words is arguably the most respectful quality in a headteacher. You will be someone who embodies these. You will have a strong belief in the power of reflection and professional development, leading a team that continually evaluates and looks for improvements.

We are particularly keen to read in your application about who you are and how you will improve upon the excellent standards at Long Close School; at the same time driving forward our core aim – the quality of teaching. Please give us examples from your career and your life which exemplify your leadership approach and educational philosophy. We are looking to appoint an individual who thinks for themselves and is a strong and authentic leader.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a Cognita application form and a covering letter

addressed to Simon Rudland, General Manager addressing the criteria outlined in this Candidate Brief and accompanying person specification. The letter should be no more than two sides of A4. A current CV can also be added but it cannot replace the completed application form.

All applications should be submitted to our Senior Talent Manager, Kamini Chouhan, by email, kamini.chouhan@cognita.com and must be received by Wednesday, 30th November 5.00 pm

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend first-round interviews on Tuesday, 13th December 2022. Successful candidates, after Day 1, will be invited to meet with Michael Drake, CEO of Europe for a final stage interview to take place via Teams.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. In addition to all other background checks, an appointment is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for regulated activity (if you have lived in the UK) and/or Overseas Checks for all other countries in which you have lived or worked (for 3 months or more in any one country in the past 10 years) and your country of origin.