Principal
Orion Spires
Kent
- New
- Salary:
- Competitive
- Job type:
- Full Time, Permanent
- Start date:
- September 2026
- Apply by:
- 13 May 2026
Job overview
At Orion Spires, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and aspirational environment in which every student can thrive academically, socially and personally. We believe deeply in the power of education to transform life chances, nurturing confident young people who go on to make a positive and meaningful contribution to their communities.
Orion Spires is at a pivotal point in its journey. With improving outcomes and attendance, the school is well placed to build further momentum and deliver consistently strong outcomes for all students within an engaging, enriching and caring environment.
As Principal, you will play a central role in shaping the future of the school. You will bring dynamic, decisive and empowering leadership, underpinned by relentlessly high expectations. You will unite staff behind a clear and compelling vision, build strong, high-performing teams, and foster a culture in which everyone is supported and challenged to be their best.
We are seeking a leader who understands what it takes to move a good school to greatness — someone who can build on strong foundations, bring the community with them, and lead sustained improvement in teaching and learning. You will drive an ambitious curriculum, secure a shared understanding of excellent classroom practice, and provide strategic direction through bespoke professional development and instructional coaching. Staff wellbeing and development will be a clear priority, with a strong commitment to growing talent and leadership capacity across the school.
In return, Orion Education offers exceptional leadership development and genuine opportunities for career progression within the school and across the Trust.
We have high expectations of behaviour and conduct, ensuring that the school remains calm, orderly and focused on learning. As Principal, you will further strengthen our pastoral and behaviour systems, maintaining a culture of safety, respect and ambition. In January 2023, Ofsted recognised that “lessons are calm and orderly”. As the school approaches inspection under the new framework, we are ambitious for Orion Spires not just to succeed, but to flourish.
To find out more about the role and the application process we recommend that in the first instance you contact our recruitment partners Propelo on 01273 222877 or by email orionedu@propelo.co.uk .
Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date of the advertisement.
About Orion Spires
The Spires Academy provides an inspirational educational environment for students aged 11-16 in Canterbury. We offer the highest quality education, care and teaching to motivate students to learn within a small, supportive and challenging setting that prepares them for all aspects of adult life.
Our specialist status in Business & Enterprise, and Visual, Creative & Performing Arts, underpins our dynamic approach to teaching and learning. These specialisms ensure that we have the resources and expertise to encourage students to develop confidence, understanding and skills in these areas.
As an Academy, our sponsors are committed to working in partnership with students, staff, parents, governors and the local community, and to support the Academy in raising aspirations and building a successful future. Our sponsors Crown Products and Holiday Extras are local companies, and are dedicated to ensuring that all children, whatever their ability and background, have the opportunity to enhance their life chances through an excellent school education.
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