Headteacher

Willow Grove Primary School is a co-educational school catering for 72 pupils within Key Stages 1 and 2. Pupils have a range of social, emotional and mental health difficulties. An increasing number of our pupils have a diagnosis of ADHD and/or Autism and many have associated learning difficulties. 

The school, which has a Borough wide catchment area, is situated in Ashton in Makerfield in a pleasant residential area, set amongst large playing fields and spacious hard play areas.

Following the retirement of our long standing headteacher, the Governors wish to appoint a highly motivated and inspirational headteacher who will lead our senior management team in their commitment to ensuring high quality SEMH provision in line with our vision and mission statement. 

We are already established in working through an Attachment and Trauma Lens, as such the school curriculum is one based upon the importance of building trusting relationships. We hold a strong stance that it is by doing so that our children have the best chance of being ready to learn.

The successful applicant will, through a positive attitude, inspire and engage with our whole school community. We are seeking a compassionate leader who has the ability to ensure staff accountability, flexibility and the resilience to manage the demands of the role of Headteacher.

This exciting role presents an excellent opportunity to play a key part in shaping the future of our busy and vibrant school in line with our vision and values.

In return we offer you:

• A caring and welcoming school which prides itself in maintaining excellent relationships with staff, parents, relevant services and the local community.
• The support of an experienced Deputy Headteacher who strives to provide every child with opportunities and experiences that will motivate and inspire them, and who encourages the children, staff and parents to be the best that they can be.
• A supportive leadership team committed to school improvement.
• Friendly, hardworking dedicated staff team.
• Ongoing professional development, mentoring and coaching.
• A supportive Governing Board who are fully committed to the vision that every child will reach their full potential and become the best that they can be.

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to visit school. Please contact Michelle Foster, Clerk to the Selection Panel, via email at michelle.foster@wigan.gov.uk to make an appointment. An informal conversation about the school and any questions you may have can be arranged directly through our school improvement partner, Cole Andrew on 07776 900589, or via e-mail at cole@inclusivelearningnorth.co.uk

Application packs are available from and returnable to Michelle Foster using the above email or alternatively via post to Michelle Foster Clerk to the Selection Panel, Governor Services, 2nd Floor, Life Centre South, College Avenue, Wigan WN1 1NZ.

Closing date for applications Thursday 9th May 2024 at 12 noon

Shortlisting Tuesday 14th May 2024

Interviews Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th May 2024

The Governors and staff at Willow Grove are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

The post will be subject to the requirements of the Childcare (Disqualification) 2009 Regulation and the successful applicant will be required to complete a declaration form to establish whether they are disqualified under these regulations.

Enhanced checks through Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will be required for this post.

Online searches may also be undertaken for shortlisted candidates.