Headteacher

Job Introduction

Due to the retirement of our current headteacher in July 2026, we are looking for an enthusiastic, inspirational and transformational leader to become our next headteacher - someone who will build on our current success, champion our Christian values and lead our church school with vision and compassion.

St. James’ Primary School is situated in Emsworth, on the Hampshire/West Sussex border, a wonderful part of the country. We have excellent transport links to Chichester and Portsmouth and beyond.

This is an exceptional opportunity to guide a thriving and forward-thinking school into its next exciting chapter, working with the whole school community to shape the lives of our remarkable children and the dedicated staff who support them.

Can you bring care, commitment, a sense of humour, positivity, professional experience and understanding to this role? If so, we would love to hear from you!

Please browse our website and get in touch so you can come and see our wonderful school for yourself. www.stjems.org.uk 

Application Procedure

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. Please contact the School Business Manager, Johanna Haskell, jhaskell@stjamesprimaryemsworth.co.uk  or telephone 01243 372715 to make arrangements.

Please find attached the Headteacher information pack and application form. 

To apply, download the attached application form by clicking the on the application form, then complete and save it. Once ready, click 'Apply' button to upload your completed application form.

Should you be applying as a job-share, each applicant should complete their own application in the first instance making it clear that they are applying as a job-share and naming clearly the job-share partner in their application.

You should provide a full statement in support of your application, which should not exceed two sides of A4 paper, and should take account of the key focus areas in the Job Description and elements of the Person Specification marked with an (A). Please do not restate the factual details already included elsewhere on the application form.

Selection Procedure 

The shortlist and the selection process will take place on 5 February 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

St. James’ CE Primary 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.