Headteacher

About Pontefract Academies Trust   

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve. 

The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Our primary outcomes at Key Stage 2 now sit 27% above the national average, with five out of the seven in the top 5% in the country for combined outcomes. Three of our primary schools – De Lacy, Carleton Park and Larks Hill – were recognised as Outstanding across all areas in their most recent Ofsted inspections. 

Our secondary schools Key Stage 4 results for English, Maths and Science are well above national average and both schools had successful visits from Ofsted in 2024 and 2022. 

About Orchard Head Junior, Infant & Nursery School 

At Orchard Head, success begins with strong foundations. Our dedicated staff are committed to nurturing a lifelong love for learning in every child, empowering them to become confident, independent, and successful individuals. We take pride in our above-national Key Stage 2 attainment and progress outcomes, reflecting our unwavering focus on academic excellence. Beyond academics, our personalised development opportunities enrich the curriculum, providing pupils with memorable experiences that shape their holistic growth. Together as a school community, we celebrate our achievements and eagerly anticipate continued growth, flourishing, and success at Orchard Head. 

About the role 

We are seeking to appoint a Headteacher at Orchard Head J,I&N School.    

If you have a proven track record of working strategically at a senior leadership level, to deliver successful whole school change, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a school with huge potential and be part of a thriving and supportive Trust. You must believe in the school and the Trust’s values and be motivated to make a difference. 

Your professional development will be a key priority, and you will have the support of a highly skilled and experienced network of senior leaders. 

You must be flexible, not precious, or territorial, and able to combine operational, hands-on leadership with clear strategic planning and direction. Your positive, can-do spirit will engage and inspire students, staff, and parents/carers. Above all else, you must be passionate about improving the life chances of children and young people and aspire to make them outstanding citizens. 

This is a 1 FTE, permanent contract, with a start date of 1 September 2025. 

What can we offer you?  

We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:  

• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Every Day Development (EDD) Framework, including goals that are personal and flexible and professional development days to self-reflect and invest in personal development to aid staff engagement, boost wellbeing and enhance employee skills 
• Energise and Engage Weeks throughout the year, where no meetings take place. These dedicated weeks prioritise personal professional development, support work-life balance, and allow for an early finish on designated days 
• Generous employer pension (Teachers Pension) 
• Laptop 
• Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Blue Light card 
• Discounted gym membership   
• Free eyecare via Specsavers  
• Childcare vouchers  
• Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters)  
• Discounts at numerous retailers including O2 
• Free flu vaccinations. 

Further Information 

Interested candidates are encouraged to contact our Chief Executive Officer, Julian Appleyard OBE for further information or an informal conversation about the role.  Potential candidates are welcome to visit out school. this is a great opportunity to explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and get a feel for the vibrant community we have built here. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have.

Please email adminsupport@patrust.org.uk or call 01977 232146 to arrange an informal conversation or visit to the school. 

Key Dates 

• Application Deadline: 10:00am, Wednesday 14th May 2025 
• Interview Date: Monday 19th & Tuesday 20th May 2025 
• Start Date: Monday 1st September 2025  

Application Process 

• Complete application form via our website  

Important Links 

Pontefract Academies Trust Website  

Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028 

Orchard Head J,I&N School Website 

Contact Information 

• 01977 232146  
• adminsupport@patrust.org.uk 

We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone. The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to ensuring children and young people are fully supported and safe. We are dedicated to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare. Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.