Job Introduction
Primary Assistant Headteacher - Culture, Behaviour & Pupil Outcomes
Leadership Scale: L3 - L7
Full-time, permanent
Required From September 2026
We are seeking an Assistant Headteacher for the Primary Phase to share in and support the leadership of the school. You will be a visible, values‑driven leader across EYFS, KS1 and KS2, modelling high expectations of behaviour, pastoral care and educational standards. In this role, you will lead the strategic direction and quality of pastoral provision across the Primary Phase, ensuring that pupils feel safe, included and ready to learn. You will work closely with staff to strengthen culture, behaviour and attitudes, and ensure that all children are able to learn and achieve to the best of their ability.
A key aspect of the role will be to lead and quality‑assure transitions into and out of the Primary Phase — ensuring children experience a smooth, well‑supported start to EYFS and a confident, well‑prepared transition into Year 7. You will collaborate with Early Years practitioners, families and secondary colleagues to secure continuity of care, curriculum and expectations. Alongside this, you will support the senior leadership team with operational and community matters, contributing to the effective day‑to‑day running of the school and the wider development of our inclusive, ambitious culture.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a school community where pupils are known, valued and encouraged to flourish.
About the role
The successful candidate will:
- Share fully in the leadership and management of the Primary Phase as a member of the Primary Senior Leadership Team
- Be a visible, values‑driven leader across EYFS, KS1 and KS2, modelling high expectations of behaviour, conduct and professionalism
- Lead and quality-assure transition processes into EYFS and into Year 7, ensuring pupils and families are supported through change and that information sharing between phases is robust, purposeful and child-centred.
- Lead agreed Primary‑focused priorities from the School Improvement Plan
- Support and challenge staff to ensure consistency and clarity of practice
- Contribute to staff appraisal and professional development as directed by the Head of School (Primary)
- Support the operational leadership and day‑to‑day organisation of the Primary Phase
- Uphold and promote the distinctive Christian character of St Mark’s in daily practice
The full job description for this role can be found in the Application Information Pack on our website.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone who has:
- QTS and strong Primary teaching background
- Secure knowledge of EYFS, KS1 and KS2 curriculum, pedagogy and assessment
- Strong safeguarding knowledge and experience of pastoral systems
- Ability to contribute to Primary SLT and operational leadership
- Experience leading transition processes (EYFS entry / Y7 transfer)
- Experience working directly with pupils and families where behaviour is a barrier
- Experience leading targeted responses for key groups (PP, vulnerable, EAL)
- Ability to support emotional wellbeing, confidence and self‑regulation
- Strong communicator able to build positive relationships
Why Join us?
- A strong Christian ethos where love, service, and belonging are lived daily
- A supportive senior leadership team that values pastoral work
- A school community where pupils are known, valued, and listened to
- Opportunities to shape and strengthen whole-school pastoral practice
- A role that balances strategic leadership with meaningful pupil contact
What We Offer
- Membership of the Teacher’s Pension Scheme
- Secure on-site car parking
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme, including confidential 24/7 counselling support
- Access to a Benefits Hub, offering a range of discounts and offers
- Occupational Health support
- On-site hot and cold food options
- Access to online training and personal development courses
- The opportunity to work in a brand-new, high-specification school environment
- Career development opportunities within a supportive organisation
Additional Information
- Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to support sponsorship.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to make a meaningful contribution within a caring and ambitious school community.
How to Apply
Applications can be made through TES or directly via the school website: https://www.stmarksschool.co.uk/community/vacancies-at-st-marks/
Closing date: Thursday 14th May at 11:55pm
Interview date: Wednesday 20th May
Please return completed applications to: recruitment@st-marks-southampton.org.uk
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Safeguarding Statement
St Mark’s Church of England School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.
Southampton City Council is an equal opportunities employer.
