Headteacher at Huddersfield Grammar School

Cognita is an extraordinary group of diverse yet connected schools, spanning sixteen different countries. We share one common purpose: to create an inspiring world of education that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed. With over 100 schools in Europe, Latin America, Middle East, North America and Asia, we employ 15,000 teaching and support staff in the care and education of more than 75,000 students.

We are seeking to recruit an inspirational leader and custodian for students, colleagues and parents as the Head of Huddersfield Grammar School. This is a for profit school within the Cognita group. Our Heads are appointed to ensure continuous improvement in all areas, delivering a Holistic Cognita Education whilst ensuring overall commercial success of the school.

Huddersfield Grammar School is a vibrant and stimulating place to work, set in beautiful woodland surroundings and a warm, kind and purposeful feel permeates the whole community.

As an all-through independent school, we pride ourselves on our dedication to developing the whole child every bit as much as our strong examination results, and encourage our students to be future-focused, to aim high in all they do, and to make the most of the breadth of opportunities offered to them. Our HGS colleagues are equipped with the tools, support and continual professional training needed to succeed and flourish. Working at Huddersfield Grammar School is rewarding, and you will be joining a community of like-minded professionals.

Attentive pastoral care lies at the heart of our success, and we go to great lengths to ensure that every individual feels valued, enjoys school life and achieves more than they thought possible. With many classes featuring less than 20 pupils, learning is individualised to meet every child’s needs, and our traditional facilities boast the latest technology.

We are interested in candidate who met the following brief.

Key Responsibilities will include, (but not limited to):

• Strong leadership skills with integrity and a strong moral compass has resilience but is willing to be open and learn
• Enjoys empowering others and nurturing talent
• Able and willing to have honest & tough conversations with colleagues and parents.
• Ability to simplify the complex
• Strong people skills with the ability to build teams and the school community
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Manage competing priorities and meeting deadlines
• Able to develop and deliver strategic plans
• Be adaptable in order to engage effectively with parents, pupils, colleagues

Experience/ Knowledge

• Demonstrate outstanding teaching practice
• Good commercial acumen.
• Knowledge of safeguarding regulations and Independent Schools Standard & Regulations
• Deep understanding of the curriculum
• Experience of delivering strong commercial and financial performance in schools

Qualifications

• Degree in Education Relevant Educational qualification / qualified teacher status
• Master’s in Education and/or leadership (Desirable)

Benefits Package

Here at Cognita we offer a Competitive Salary with some great benefits.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We believe having a diverse workforce makes us better, smarter and happier and so welcome applicants from all backgrounds, genders, and races. We have an unwavering commitment to being fair, inclusive and equitable in our recruitment process.

Safeguarding Responsibilities:

• To comply with safeguarding policies, procedures and code of conduct

• To demonstrate a personal commitment to safeguarding & student/colleague wellbeing

• To ensure that safeguarding concerns or incidents are reported appropriately in line with policy

• To engage in safeguarding training when required

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 practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

Cognita is committed to preserving and promoting equality of opportunity in all aspects of the conduct of its business.

No member of staff or any applicant for employment with Cognita will be discriminated against, harassed or victimised because of their personal characteristics. Cognita expects all staff to comply with the letter and the spirit of its policy.

How to Apply

• Applicants must submit a completed Cognita application form, CV and supporting statement letter addressed to Kerri Newton, Senior EU Talent 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 must be added but it cannot replace the completed application form. All applications should be submitted by email to recruitment@cognita.com and must be received by 5.00pm – Sunday 19th February 2023. (This has been extended so may look different in the interview pack)
• Interviews/Assessment Centre are scheduled for 28th February and 1st March 2023.
• Successful candidates after first round interviews will be invited to meet with Michael Drake, CEO Europe for a final stage interview to take place via Teams. The new Head will be expected to take up the post in September 2023.