Headteacher

Shorefields; Brentwood; On-site; GBP 99,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Brentwood is seeking a Headteacher to lead a vibrant Catholic school community. The successful candidate will have a strong background in educational leadership and a proven record in fostering high standards and community engagement. This full-time role offers a competitive salary range of £99,537 to £119,590 pa and requires commitment to safeguarding and excellence. Applications are open until February 5, 2026.

Benefits

Supportive leadership team

Excellent facilities

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven and successful record in senior leadership roles, like Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher.
• Commitment to upholding the values of Catholic education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school in partnership with the Diocese of Brentwood.
• Foster a culture of high expectations and professional development.
• Build supportive relationships with parents and the community.

Skills

Leadership in education

Communication

Commitment to Catholic education

Community engagement

Integrity

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Job Ref No. ECC5461-291L

Position Type: Headteacher
Pay Range: HT Group 6 Leadership Scale Points 27–35 (Fringe)
Full Time Salary Range: £99,537 to £119,590 pa
Contract Type: Full-time Permanent
Start Date: 01/09/2026
Application Close: 05/02/2026 Midnight

About the School

Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School is a Roman Catholic state secondary for girls aged 11‑16 with a co‑educational Sixth Form, situated in Brentwood, Essex. The school is widely recognised for its strong academic outcomes, outstanding Ofsted rating and vibrant pastoral care. It serves approximately 1,000 students, including around 130 in the Sixth Form, and is committed to fostering an inclusive, comprehensive education and a thriving Catholic identity.

The Successful Candidate Will:

• Be a practising and committed Roman Catholic with the personal faith and integrity to lead a Catholic school in partnership with the Diocese of Brentwood
• Demonstrate a clear commitment to Catholic education, inclusive comprehensive values and the formation of the whole person
• Have a proven and successful record of senior leadership as a Headteacher, Head of School or Deputy Headteacher
• Provide thoughtful, inspirational and strategic leadership within a changing educational landscape
• Foster a culture of high expectations, collaboration and professional development
• Build positive and supportive relationships with parents, carers, parishes and the wider community
• Uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, supported by excellent communication skills
• Demonstrate determination to raise achievement and secure continuous improvement while building on existing strengths

In Return, We Offer:

• A strong, experienced and supportive leadership team
• Dedicated, well‑qualified and committed staff
• An effective and supportive governing body
• Excellent facilities, including a new purpose‑built Sixth Form block due for completion in 2026
• The guidance, support and challenge of the Diocese of Brentwood
• Safeguarding and safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check for all staff and volunteers

Key Dates

• Closing date: Thursday 5 February 2026
• Shortlisting: Wednesday 11 February 2026
• Interviews: Wednesday 25 February and Thursday 26 February 2026

How to Apply

If you are an inspiring Catholic leader with the ambition to serve a secondary school community within the Diocese of Brentwood, rooted in faith and guided by a commitment to excellence, service and respect, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Application packs are available online at www.brentwoodursuline.co.uk or via the Clerk to the Governors, Mrs Bajwa at Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School, Queen's Road, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4EX. Telephone [phone] or email [e-mail].

Applications (including all the necessary Catholic Education Service documents as available on the school website) should be returned to the Deputy Chair of Governors, Mr Mark Butcher, care of the school address above or via email to [e-mail] by 11.59 pm on the closing date of Thursday 5 February 2026.

We welcome school visits by appointment with our current Headteacher Dr Richard Wilkin. To arrange a visit please email Mrs M. Freeman, Headteacher's PA at [e-mail].

Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check as well as other pre‑appointment checks outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Contact Information

• Deputy Chair of Governors, Mr Mark Butcher – [e-mail]
• Headteacher's PA, Mrs M. Freeman – [e-mail]
• Telephone: [phone]