Head of School

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 Larks Hill J&I School 

Larks Hill, a high-achieving school both locally and nationally, is a one form entry primary school, part of Pontefract Academies Trust. At Larks Hill, we are committed to investing in all of our children to prepare and provide them with the educational and life skills they will need to be successful in high school and future careers.

We want children to be the ‘very best version of themselves’. In 2023 & 2024 we achieved 93% for reading, writing and maths with 39% of the 2024 cohort achieving greater depth in reading, writing and maths, leading us to being recognised as one of the top ten highest achieving schools in Yorkshire. Additionally, we proudly secured the 121st spot in the prestigious 2024 'Times Top 500 Primary Schools in England' list, firmly establishing us within the top 3% of primary schools across the country. In March 2025, Ofsted praised the school as outstanding in all five inspected judgement areas, confirming our commitment to excellence. 

About the role 

We are seeking to appoint a Head of School at Larks Hill J&I 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 5 January 2026 (or as soon as possible). 

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 
• Everyday Development (EDD) Framework: A simple, personal and flexible goal-based approach to continuous learning, career growth and wellbeing. 
• For the 2025/26 academic year, we will be providing staff with three Everyday Development (EDD) Days.  These development days will offer you self-directed time away from the workplace to recharge and reflect on your personal and career goals. 
• 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. 

School Visits and 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 25th June 2025 
• Interview Date: Monday 30th June and Tuesday 1st July 2025 
• Start Date: Monday 5th January 2026 (or as soon as possible) 

Application Process 

• Complete application form via our website 

Important Links 

Pontefract Academies Trust Website  

Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028 

Larks Hill J&I 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.