Assistant Headteacher: Personal Development & Enrichment

Assistant Headteacher: Personal Development & Enrichment

Leadership Scale: L12 – L16

Required for June 2026 (or sooner)

Who we are.

At Wardle Academy, we believe education is about far more than just exam results. We are on a mission to develop learners who are well-rounded, socially conscious, and aspirational. Of course outcomes are important, but so is personal growth and development. The two aims are not mutually exclusive. We don’t just teach subjects; we build character through a unique ethos we call The Wardle Way.

We are seeking a visionary Assistant Headteacher to become the architect of our Personal Development pillar.

The Role: Leading with Purpose

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will breathe life into our core values:

• The Form Time Revolution (Wellbeing & Empathy): You will transform morning registration into the heartbeat of the school. By elevating the role of the Form Tutor, you’ll design a high-impact program that fosters a sense of belonging and prepares students mentally, academically and emotionally for the day ahead.

• World-Class Enrichment (Ambition): You will turn "extra-curricular" into a "co-curricular" powerhouse. From sports to niche life-skills workshops, you will ensure 100% engagement, closing the "opportunity gap" and proving that there are no limits to what our students can achieve both in and outside of the classroom.

• Student Voice (Leadership & Respect): You will empower our students to take the lead. By showing genuine respect for their perspectives, you will ensure their voices shape the evolution of the Academy.

• Inclusive Excellence (Diversity): You will lead a strategy that celebrates what makes every individual unique, ensuring our Personal Development curriculum exceeds statutory requirements and prepares students for life in a modern, diverse society. At Wardle Academy, our commitment to British Values is woven into the very fabric of our school life. We don’t see these as separate requirements; they are the natural extension of the Wardle Way.

Please note, whilst the primary objectives will initially encompass Personal Development, form time, and enrichment programming, the specific duties of the Assistant Headteacher may be periodically adjusted to support the postholder’s professional development across the full leadership spectrum and to remain responsive to the school’s evolving requirements.

Who You Are

We need a leader who is as organised as they are empathetic. You should be:

• A Champion of the Wardle Way: A passionate advocate who models respect and kindness in every interaction.

• A Strategic Architect: Able to use data to track engagement and ensure that all of our community are reaching for the highest goals (Ambition).

• A Culture Builder: Someone who can make a Tuesday morning assembly feel like a major event and motivate staff to go the "extra mile."

• Grounded & Resilient: Leadership is demanding; a sense of humour and a "fear no-one" attitude toward challenges are essential for our SLT dynamic.

Why Join Wardle Academy?

Part of the Watergrove Trust, we serve a diverse community in a beautiful semi-rural setting near the West Pennines. Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in all areas (Oct 2022), we are a school that refuses to stand still. We offer:

• A transformational ethos where you can truly make your mark.

• Exceptional CPD and career progression opportunities.

• A friendly, welcoming staff community and wonderful learners.

• Excellent facilities, easy M62 access, and a commitment to your own professional development.

Apply Now

Ready to shape the future of our young people? If so, we look forward to receiving your application. Apply exclusively via the WhatSchool platform.

Closing Date: 30th March 2026

Tours: We’d love to show you around! Contact Carolynne Jones at people@wardleacademy.co.uk to arrange a visit.

Watergrove Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Appointments are subject to enhanced DBS clearance.