Headteacher

Headteacher of Ripley St Thomas Church of England Academy, Lancaster

Salary: L31–L36 (negotiable for an exceptional candidate) + relocation allowance

Start date: September 2026

Ripley St Thomas Church of England Academy is seeking an outstanding and inspirational Headteacher to lead the next chapter in the life of this highly successful, oversubscribed and nationally respected school.

Ripley is a large and thriving Church of England academy with approximately 1,750 pupils, including a vibrant sixth form of around 330 students. The school is rooted in a strong Christian ethos, with faith, hope, love and service at the heart of its community. Our vision is for all members of our community to flourish spiritually, academically and personally, so that they may live life in all its fullness.

Judged Outstanding in its last three Ofsted and SIAMS inspections, Ripley is one of the highest-performing non-selective schools in Lancashire. GCSE outcomes are consistently excellent, and the school is recognised for its ambitious curriculum, exemplary behaviour, rich co-curricular offer and exceptional pastoral care. A distinctive feature of the school is its working farm, where all pupils in Key Stage 3 study Agriculture and Horticulture.

Ripley is the founding school and lead academy within The Bay Learning Trust, a growing multi-academy trust serving the Morecambe Bay area. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO and fellow Headteachers across the Trust, sharing best practice and contributing to system-wide improvement.

The successful candidate will:

·        Provide inspirational, values-driven leadership sympathetic to the Christian Ethos & Values of the School.

·        Build on the school’s outstanding performance and shape its future strategic direction

·        Secure excellence in teaching, learning, behaviour and attendance for all pupils

·        Lead, develop and hold to account a large and highly professional staff team

·        Work effectively with governors, the Trust, the Diocese and the wider community

·        Champion safeguarding and the wellbeing of pupils and staff

We welcome applications from experienced Headteachers or Deputy Headteachers with a proven track record of school improvement and a commitment to Church school leadership. While NPQH and post-16 leadership experience are desirable, they are not essential.

Why join Ripley?

·        A nationally high-performing school with exceptional pupils

·        A strong Christian ethos and inclusive community

·        Extensive professional development and leadership opportunities

·        A collaborative and supportive multi-academy trust

·        Beautiful grounds, outstanding facilities and a unique school farm

Visits are warmly encouraged. To arrange a visit, please contact Marie Tormey at marie.tormey@matrecruitment.com

How to apply

Applications must be made using the application form and accompanied by a supporting letter (maximum two sides of A4) outlining your vision for education within a Christian context and your suitability for the role. CVs will not be accepted.

Closing date: 12.00 noon, Thursday 5th February 2026
Interviews: Thursday 12th & Friday 13th February 2026

Ripley St Thomas CE Academy and The Bay Learning Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.