Headteacher

Job Introduction

An exciting opportunity to lead a thriving, values-driven school

The Governors of Cove Junior School are seeking to appoint an exceptional, child‑centred and forward‑thinking Headteacher who will inspire our community and lead the school confidently into its next chapter.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving improvement to build on strong foundations and further enhance the quality of education, inclusion and personal development for every pupil.

Cove Junior School is a warm, ambitious and nurturing community where children are known as individuals, staff are dedicated and skilled, and families are highly supportive. Our most recent Ofsted inspection (2024) celebrated the strong culture for learning that permeates the school:

“There is an appetite for learning and success at Cove Junior School. Everyone aims high… Parents are very positive about the school, which they describe as caring, accommodating and a happy place for their children.”

As our new Headteacher, you will nurture this ethos while bringing energy, clarity and strategic direction to help us realise the school’s full potential.

We Are Looking for a Leader Who Will:

• Use evidence intelligently to support high‑quality decision making and drive sustained improvement
• Inspire, empower and grow others, developing leadership at every level
• Model emotional intelligence, integrity and resilience when navigating complexity
• Communicate purpose and ambition with clarity, positivity and conviction
• Champion equity, inclusion and high aspirations for every child
• Build strong, positive partnerships within and beyond the school, contributing to wider system improvement

In Return, We Offer:

• Confident, enthusiastic and highly motivated pupils who love learning and are proud of their school
• A talented, collaborative staff team committed to innovation, professional growth and doing what’s best for children
• A supportive and proactive Governing Body, working in genuine partnership with school leaders
• A caring, inclusive school culture, where wellbeing matters and children are at the heart of every decision
• A beautiful Victorian school building, complemented by excellent outdoor learning and sporting spaces
• Strong relationships with local headteachers and the wider community, ensuring the Headteacher is well supported
• Access to high‑quality, bespoke professional development, tailored to your strengths, ambitions and career pathway

Join Us

If you are an ambitious, values‑driven leader looking for an opportunity to make a lasting impact and shape the future of a much‑loved school, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Key Information

• Closing Date: Noon, 29 April 2026
• Interview Dates: 15 and 18 May 2026
• Start Date: September 2026 or January 2027
• Contract: Permanent, Full‑time
• Salary: Leadership Scale L17 – L23 (£76,772- £88951)
• Location: Cove Junior School, Farnborough, Hampshire

Application Procedure

Please refer to the Headteacher Information Pack for full details, including the job description and further information about our school. More information can also be found on our website:
https://covejunior.co.uk

School visits are strongly encouraged and will be warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit, please contact:
  01252 542941
✉️ office@cove-jun.hants.sch.uk

Completed application forms should be submitted via the ‘Apply’ button once downloaded and saved.

Shortlisting will take place on 29th April, with the selection process on 15th and 18th May 2026. Applicants will be informed of the outcome within three working days of shortlisting.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Cove Junior School and Hampshire County Council are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, online searches and other relevant pre‑employment checks, in line with safer recruitment guidance.