Headteacher

We are looking for a new headteacher for our high achieving and consistently over-subscribed 11-18 school and for our successful 14-19 Studio School. Our current headteacher is retiring after a successful career of 36 years with 26 of those in Knutsford. We are now seeking a talented successor who can build on the schools’ achievements while bringing their own vision and style to Knutsford Academy and Cheshire Studio School. 

The two schools have a combined roll of 1400, including a sixth form of 250 students, located in the historic market town of Knutsford. Our excellent reputation locally means that we are oversubscribed with a Sixth Form that continues to grow.  

Knutsford Academy was recognised by Ofsted in November 2021 as a school where “Leaders and staff encourage the pursuit of excellence for all pupils and students. Staff carefully nurture the confidence of pupils. Pupils have high aspirations for what they can achieve academically, personally, and socially.” 

We have a strong team ethos, with students and staff alike welcoming the opportunity to help others succeed. Knutsford Academy boasts strong academic performance with outstanding outcomes in English and mathematics both contributing to our Progress 8 score in 2022 being 0.39. 

Cheshire Studio school caters for students from Year 10 through to 13 and it offers a less traditional curriculum. Students can choose from a range of vocational course and have the opportunity to take part in regular work experience. Students in Cheshire Studio school also have access to a range of courses being offered in the academy and at KS 4, classes in English, mathematics, science, PSHCE and physical education are blended. 

The schools maintain a strong financial position, allowing significant investment to be made in the site over the last 3 years. A £400K refurbishment of the Sixth Form block has just been completed and other projects with a total of approximately £2m are planned over the next two to three years.  

The schools are part of The Learning Alliance, a growing and flourishing family of schools. As the new headteacher, you will enjoy unstinting support and care from an experienced and approachable local governing board as well as advice and help from an experienced Chief Executive and other trust officers. The role includes day-to-day responsibility for the operation of the schools, providing a great education for all and ensuring the wellbeing of our whole school community. 

We are looking for a highly effective leader with a natural leaning towards collaborative working, who will fulfil the potential for staff and children alike, utilising an adaptive style to best meet the needs of the schools' communities. We are proud of our schools and are looking for someone who will uphold our excellent reputation and nurture our existing and positive relationships with staff and parents or carers. Staff members work collaboratively together and with students and parents to build strong relationships and improve outcomes for all. Knutsford Academy and Cheshire Studio School continue to forge positive relationships and links with partner primary schools and the other schools within the Learning Alliance. 

As our new Headteacher, you will demonstrate your commitment to excellence inside and outside the classroom. You will also have a proven track record of high expectations and outstanding achievement along with a passion for all children and their education. We welcome applications from existing headteachers or deputies who have experience and/or understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in running a large and complex organisation.    

We offer an attractive salary and a competitive benefits package. The scale is highly competitive with other roles regionally and nationally of equivalent size, and for an exceptional candidate there would be room for negotiation. The Learning Alliance supports its family of schools with specialist central services, extensive professional development and career opportunities, and a wide network of curriculum and other links. 

To apply for this post, please complete an application on TES. Alongside this, please set out in 1,000 words why this is the right post for you. 

All completed application forms and written statements need to be submitted by Friday 3 March 2023. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited to attend a 2-day interview during the week commencing Monday 13 March 2023. 

The interview process will involve a series of panel interviews, leadership tasks and presentations. There will also be an opportunity for shortlisted candidates to meet staff and students during the interview days. 

We encourage all prospective candidates to visit and meet with us. You can contact us by emailing 

Mr J.A. Whittaker: jwr@knutsfordacademy.org.uk