St John’s School, Leatherhead

The Governing Council of St John’s School, Leatherhead is seeking an exceptional individual to join the School as Head from September 2023. This is an outstanding opportunity to lead a flourishing co-educational independent school in the heart of Surrey for 850 pupils aged 11 to 18.

We are a “day school with a boarding heart”, which celebrates each child for who they are and enables them to do their very best in all areas of school life.  Founded in 1851 to provide education for the sons of the clergy, today the School has a reputation for innovation, academic excellence, strong pastoral care and a first class all-round education for young people.

The new Head will have the opportunity to shape and implement an ambitious strategy and long-term vision for the development of the School that maintains our upwards trajectory and creates a strong, sustainable future for the organisation. We are looking for an inspirational, bold and empathetic leader who can continue to develop an exceptional learning experience, be willing to drive through decisions and build on our successes, whilst ensuring that our school community, pupils and staff continue to flourish.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).  The School may carry out online searches on shortlisted applicants and all applicants will be required to provide details of their online profile, including social media accounts, as part of their application.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.  The School is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions on a self-declaration form in advance of attending an interview (including those which are “spent” unless they are “protected” under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to St John’s School, Leatherhead on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference YBFUA. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Wednesday 2nd November.