Head
The Leys School
Cambridgeshire
- Expired
- Salary:
- Competitive
- Job type:
- Full Time, Permanent
- Apply by:
- 14 March 2024
Job overview
Appointment of Head
Located in the centre of the beautiful and historic university city of Cambridge, The Leys is a leading boarding and day school for 570 girls and boys aged 11 to 18. The Leys enjoys an enviable reputation for its blend of traditional values with an innovative and forward-looking approach to modern education. A determinedly small school where pupils’ educational experience is tailored, and their individual achievements celebrated, The Leys is a diverse, supportive and close-knit community of pupils, staff, parents and alumni.
The Governors now seek an inspirational leader to succeed Martin Priestley when he retires in August 2025, after 11 years of outstanding leadership. The new Head has an exciting opportunity to further develop a highly successful school, propelling The Leys community forward in the continued pursuit of excellence in all areas. The appointed candidate will be an outstanding educational leader able to develop and implement the School’s strategy, articulate its vision with clarity and ensure that it looks to the future with purpose and ambition.
Visionary and charismatic, the successful candidate will possess the leadership abilities to inspire an experienced senior management team and talented staff, and the gravitas to command the respect of parents and pupils alike. A substantial track record of successful senior management experience is essential, as are strong intellectual abilities, a deep understanding of boarding and a strong grasp of the business dimension of modern headship. A genuine commitment to holistic education and boarding, preferably gained through experience, is highly desirable.
To download the appointment details for this role, including information on how to apply, please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com quoting reference 7104. The closing date for applications is 08.30 Thursday 14th March 2024.
The Leys is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate must be willing to undergo an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure and Barring Service.
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About The Leys School
The Leys is Cambridge’s leading co-educational boarding and day school – a statement that is absolutely true and yet only scratches the surface of what makes it such a remarkable place.
At its heart, The Leys is more than just a school. It is a vibrant, inclusive and supportive community where pastoral care is not just a priority, but the foundation of everything we do. The school is big enough to offer extraordinary breadth of opportunity but small enough for staff to get to know each pupil as an individual, celebrating their unique strengths and character, and encouraging them to grow in confidence, curiosity and compassion. That sense of belonging – of being known and valued – is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.
Founded in 1875, The Leys is proud of its heritage. But we are equally committed to looking forward. Our values – kindness, respect, integrity and ambition – are timeless, yet we apply them in ways that prepare our pupils for a rapidly changing world. With outstanding teaching, excellent facilities and a culture of aspiration, we support our pupils to thrive academically and personally, both now and in the future.
Our location in the heart of Cambridge – one of the world’s most dynamic academic and cultural cities – offers unparalleled opportunities. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the sports field or beyond, our pupils are encouraged to aim high and explore widely. We are proud of their achievements, but prouder still of the people they become: thoughtful, grounded, and ready to make a difference.
This website offers a glimpse into life at The Leys, but it can only tell part of the story. I warmly invite you to visit us and experience for yourself the energy, warmth and spirit that make this school so special. We believe that education is most powerful when it is a partnership. We value the trust that parents place in us, and we are committed to working closely with families to support each child’s journey. Whether through regular communication, shared celebrations, or collaborative problem-solving, parents are active partners in the life of the school. Together, we can ensure that every pupil is known, supported and inspired to thrive – not just academically, but as confident, compassionate young people ready to make their mark on the world.
I look forward to welcoming you.
Clare Ives
Head
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