Job Introduction
Closing Date: Noon 7 September 2026
Interview Date(s): 21st & 22nd September 2026
Job start date: January 2027
Contract/Hours: Permanent, full-time
Salary Type: Leadership scale (L12-L18)
Salary Details: The indicative pay salary is set at £67,898 to £78,702
Hours of work: Full time
Location of Role: Freegrounds Infant School
Contact email address: htrecruitment@hants.gov.uk
Job/Person Summary
Freegrounds Infant School is seeking to appoint a new Headteacher from January 2027. Serving 208 pupils aged 5–7, the school is proud of its nurturing, inclusive ethos where children are at the heart of everything we do, underpinned by values of respect, resilience, teamwork and independence. The Governing Body is looking for an ambitious, approachable and values-driven leader who can build on the school’s many strengths, champion high-quality early years and Key Stage 1 provision, and inspire the whole community to achieve the very best outcomes for every child.
We are looking for an inspirational and collaborative professional with a strong track record in school improvement, safeguarding and staff development, and the ability to communicate effectively with pupils, families, staff and the wider community. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the next chapter of Freegrounds Infant School by sustaining high-quality teaching and learning, nurturing strong relationships with pupils, families, staff and governors, and leading the school with confidence, care and a clear sense of vision.
If you share our commitment to children, community, and continuous improvement, we would be delighted to hear from you. This is a rare opportunity to lead a much-loved school at the heart of its community and to make a lasting difference in the lives of our children and families.
Application Procedure
Visits to the school are warmly welcomed, please contact Mrs Carly Haines at adminoffice@freegrounds-inf.hants.sch.uk or Telephone: 01489 782075
Please find attached the Headteacher information pack.
Click the 'Apply' button to complete your application.
Applications should be received no later than noon on 7 September 2026.
You should provide a full statement in support of your application, which should not exceed two sides of A4 paper.
Please do not restate the factual details already included elsewhere on the application form.
Selection Procedure
The shortlist will be drawn up on 8 September 2026, and the selection process will take place 10 September 2026. Further details will be sent to those candidates called for interview.
Applicants will be advised after the shortlisting date whether they have been successful.
Equality Monitoring
All applications will be required to complete an Equality Monitoring form.
Safer Recruitment
Freegrounds Infant School and Hampshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Attached documents
