2 x Headteacher - Permanent - Bothal/Central Academy
Job Summary
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
20/02/2026
Advert End Date:
Closed for applications on 16/03/2026 12:00
Job Category:
Schools - Leadership
Employment Location:
Bothal/Central Academy
Further Information
Step into a transformational role. Bothal and Central primary schools are joining WISE Academy in 2026 and we’re seeking two dynamic heads to lead the way.
Bothal and Central are large, well-established sister primary schools, each with around 700 pupils, proudly serving the community of Ashington in Northumberland – a community rich in potential and resilience.
Guided by the belief that every child deserves certainty, belonging and excellence, regardless of background, both schools have fostered a culture where leaders are persistent in ambition, insistent on high standards and consistent in implementation.
In October 2023, Bothal was graded ‘Outstanding’ across the board by Ofsted and Central was graded ‘Good’ with outstanding features – EYFS, Leadership and Management, and Behaviour and Attendance — a testament to their strength and relentless focus on doing what is right for children.
These new roles arise from strategic growth. As both schools join WISE Academies on March 1 from the current Ashington Learning Partnership Foundation Trust, the current Executive Headteacher will transition into the role of Regional Director.
This planned succession builds on existing strength, creating the opportunity to appoint two exceptional headteachers to guide each school into its next phase as part of the WISE family.
You will lead your own school, working in close partnership with your sister headteacher within a supportive trust structure which includes strong, centralised leadership roles.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a large split-site primary school at a pivotal moment.
This role suits an experienced headteacher seeking significant scale, or an exceptional senior leader ready for headship within a structured and supportive trust environment.
If you are ambitious for children, committed to serving disadvantaged communities, and motivated to lead as part of a disciplined and principled team, we will welcome your application.
The successful candidate will:
Strategic and impact-driven leadership
Be an experienced and accomplished leader with a proven ability to drive sustained school improvement and deliver measurable gains in pupil outcomes across all areas of responsibility.
Deep expertise in primary education
Bring a comprehensive understanding of the full primary journey, from our high-quality, oversubscribed two year old provision in Early Years through to the academic and pastoral demands of Key Stages 1 and 2.
High expectations of culture
Establish and sustain a culture of certainty built on strong systems, consistent routines and uncompromising expectations. Ensure that the school environment visibly reflects pride and high standards, setting the tone for learning and conduct. Champion exemplary behaviour, positive attitudes and respectful manners, so that clear behavioural and social norms are understood, modelled and upheld by all members of the school community.
Curriculum and teaching
Be skilled in designing and leading a coherent, knowledge-rich curriculum, with a strong track record of translating ambition and high expectations to excellent classroom practice for all pupils through a strong knowledge of the principles of effective teaching & learning and implementation through professional learning and coaching.
Personal development of children
Demonstrate a strong commitment to the holistic development of every child, ensuring pupils flourish both academically and personally. Champion character education, wellbeing, enrichment, inclusion and positive behaviour, so that children develop confidence, resilience, independence and a strong sense of belonging. Ensure that personal development is thoughtfully woven through the curriculum and wider school experience, preparing pupils to thrive in modern Britain and beyond.
Inspirational role model
Be an exceptional classroom practitioner who leads with integrity and ambition, sets high expectations for every child, and empowers staff to continually develop and excel.
Trusted collaborator and community builder
Be committed to working in partnership across WISE Academies and with the wider community, balancing the Trust’s shared values and operating models, with a clear celebration of Bothal and Central's unique identity.
Skilled and confident communicator
Be an articulate, emotionally intelligent leader who builds strong, trusting relationships with staff, families, governors, and external partners.
We can offer you:
Leadership within a Nationally Recognised Trust
Be part of WISE Academies, a high-performing Trust with a proven track record of school improvement, offering strong governance, clear vision, and a culture that values both collaboration and local identity.
A thriving pupil community
Work with nearly 700 curious, motivated, and respectful children who bring energy, enthusiasm, and joy to everyday school life.
A culture rooted in values and inclusion
Lead within a creative, inclusive environment where the development of the whole child sits at the centre of decision-making, alongside a genuine commitment to staff wellbeing and sustainable workloads.
Exceptional professional support and development
Benefit from extensive trust-wide networks and specialist central services in finance, people, estates, and school improvement, freeing you to focus on strategic leadership and high-quality teaching and learning.
Investment in leadership growth
Access high-quality professional development, coaching, and autonomy within a supportive network that nurtures leaders at every stage and invests in the success of
the entire workforce.
The mission of WISE Academies is to provide a high-quality educational community, which offers life-changing opportunities in a safe, creative and exciting environment.
WISE Academies safeguards and protects its students and staff by being committed to respond in accordance with Local Safeguarding Board Procedures.
The Trust is committed to safer recruitment and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. The post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service clearance. The school 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 the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore will be subject to a criminal record check from the Disclosure Barring Services.
The Trust is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from as diverse a group as possible.
WISE Academies will also consider carrying out an online search for all candidates to help identify any potential issues that are publicly available online.
Applicants must have authorisation to work in the UK.
You can apply online through the North East Jobs website, go to WISE Academies Jobs and click Apply Now for Headteacher - Permanent – Bothal/Central Academy.
Please add a statement of no more than one page stating which Academy would be your preference.
For further details, please see the supporting documents section of this advert. For any queries, please contact WISE Recruitment Team by telephone 0191 7070125 [option 5] or email recruitment@wiseacademies.co.uk
Please quote the vacancy reference when requesting additional information. - BOT/CEN/292500
Tours of the School: 6 March 2026 between 9:00am and 12 noon and 10 March 2026 between 9:00am and 12 noon.
Closing date: 12noon Monday 16 March 2026
Shortlisting: week commencing 23 March 2026
Interviews: week commencing 30 March 2026
Please note
This job is closed for applications.