Phase Leader

At Chipping Norton School, we want every student to step into their secondary journey with clarity, support, and high ambition. We are seeking a dedicated Head of Key Stage 3 to lead pastoral oversight, drive academic progress across Years 7 to 9, and support our team of tutors. Why This Role Matters You will hold strategic accountability for student achievement, attendance, and wellbeing across Key Stage 3. Working collaboratively with senior leaders, you will design targeted interventions, oversee key stage events, and maintain a calm, purposeful environment across the year groups. Walking through our classrooms at 10 am on a normal Tuesday, you will see engaged students who are focused on their learning, taught by colleagues delivering lessons to a high standard. What You’ll Bring A track record of strong classroom teaching and effective pastoral leadership.

Skill in monitoring student progress, attendance, and behaviour data to implement timely interventions.

Leadership capacity to brief, support, and guide a team of tutors delivering tutor time and PSHE.

Strong communication skills for leading assemblies, working with families, and building rapport with students.

Deep commitment to safeguarding regulations and child protection procedures

The "Why Us" Difference Professional Agency: The autonomy to lead Key Stage 3 and implement effective pastoral strategies suited to our school setting.

Evidence-Informed Practice: Access to shared networks and evidence-based leadership CPLD across our secondary schools.

Workload-Sensitive Approach: Centrally supported administrative systems designed to help you focus on direct student impact.

The RLT Connection Education has the power to change lives. Being part of the River Learning Trust means you have the backing of a stable, values-driven network: Professional Security: Recognised continuous public sector service and access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS).

Shared Growth: Funding for professional pathways, including NPQs and leadership qualifications.

The Whole Person: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and flexible working practices that support your wellbeing.

River Learning Trust and Chipping Norton School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and preventing extremism. We are an exempt employer under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. We actively value the "different contributions" you can make. We want you to be at your best during the application process; if you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know. Note: We do not accept CVs; please apply via My New Term. We reserve the right to interview and appoint exceptional candidates early. Next Steps Discover Your Impact: Read the full job description and apply via MyNewTerm.

Start a Conversation: Contact Yvette Armistead yarmistead@chippingnortonschool.org or Richard Trimmer rtrimmer@chippingnortonschool.org. + to arrange an informal phone call or site visit.

The Future Path: Not the right time? Register with our Talent Pool to hear about new opportunities first https://mynewterm.com/sch_talent_pool