Head of Sixth Form

What skills and experience we're looking for

We are seeking an ambitious, dynamic, and visionary leader to take our Sixth Form provision to the next stage of its development. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to build on an already strong foundation and play a pivotal role in realising a bold, forward-thinking vision for post-16 education.

Our Sixth Form is thriving — characterised by a positive culture, strong relationships, and a clear commitment to academic success. We are proud of the high-quality teaching and learning that underpins student achievement, and we are now looking for a leader who will drive this even further, embedding consistently high standards across all areas of provision.

As Head of Sixth Form, you will

• Provide strategic leadership for the continued growth and development of the Sixth Form
• Champion excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring consistently high-quality classroom practice
• Establish and sustain a culture of high expectations, where all students are supported and challenged to achieve their very best
• Inspire students to become confident, independent learners, fully prepared for their next steps
• Work closely with the Headteacher and senior leadership team to align the Sixth Form with the wider school vision
• You will lead a well-structured and highly supportive Sixth Form team, including:

o Two Deputy Heads of Sixth Form, with responsibility for attainment tracking, intervention, enrichment, destinations, and recruitment

o A full-time Pastoral Manager, ensuring strong day-to-day pastoral care, attendance, and student wellbeing

o A part-time Pastoral Manager, with a dedicated focus on UCAS applications and post-18 progression, ensuring students are expertly guided through university and apprenticeship pathways

This strong staffing model provides the capacity to combine strategic leadership with operational excellence, ensuring that every student is known, supported, and challenged to succeed.

We welcome applications from leaders with a range of subject specialisms; however, the ability to teach Criminology at Key Stage 5 would be a distinct advantage.

We are looking for a leader who

• Has a proven track record of outstanding teaching and impactful leadership
• Is passionate about post-16 education and student outcomes
• Can think strategically while delivering operational excellence
• Has the drive, creativity, and resilience to lead change and inspire others
• Is committed to inclusion, aspiration, and ensuring every student can succeed

What the school offers its staff

This role offers a unique opportunity to help reshape the Sixth Form experience. As numbers continue to grow, we are evolving towards a more college-style model, including the potential for a broader, more flexible curriculum and an extended day, with teaching and enrichment opportunities reaching later into the afternoon.

In return, we offer

• The opportunity to shape and lead a key phase of the school’s development
• A supportive and forward-thinking senior leadership team
• A strong and collaborative Sixth Form leadership and pastoral structure
• Engaged, motivated students who are proud of their Sixth Form
• A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth

If you are ready to take on a role that combines strategic vision with tangible impact, we would love to hear from you.

Join us to benefit from

• Enhanced Maternity Pay
• Teachers Pension Scheme – with a generous employer contribution
• Employee Referral Recruitment Incentive
• Discounts with local and national retailers, cinemas and restaurants
• Access to training and development
• Employee Assistance Programme – Wellbeing and advice
• Cycle to Work scheme
• On-site Parking

Further details about the role

Ready to join us?

If you are interested in this post and require further information or would like an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact tws_hr@admin.at or 01227 931300.

Applications should be made via Kent Teach or by submitting a SAT Application Form to tws_hr@admin.at. Please note, we cannot accept CVs.

If you experience any difficulty in completing the application form, please contact recruitment@swale.at or 01795 905989.

We are happy to discuss any support you may need during your application process as part of our reasonable adjustment approach.

In accordance with current GDPR compliance we will not keep any details / application forms on file once the position is filled.

The Whitstable School may undertake online searches of any candidates as part of the Shortlisting Process.

Applications will be considered upon being received. Interviews may take place prior to the closing date.

Swale Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from ROA and will require an enhanced DBS disclosure

Swale Academies Trust schools will conduct an online check of shortlisted candidates in line with the Keeping Children Safe In Education guidelines.

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) medical online and social media prohibition from teaching right to work satisfactory references suitability to work with children You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.