Location
Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex

Hours
Full Time

Salary
L15-L19, £73,105 - £80,655 (negotiable for an exceptional candidate) plus relocation package

About the Role
We are looking for an exceptional Head of School to join Lift Hamford, a leader who can inspire, develop, and drive excellence, working alongside our Executive Principal to shape the next exciting chapter in our journey. This is an opportunity for a highly motivated senior leader with a proven track record in primary education, ready to step into headship with the full support of an experienced Executive Principal and a skilled leadership team.

Lift Hamford is a welcoming two-form entry primary school located in the charming coastal town of Walton-on-the-Naze, where every child is encouraged to thrive. We are passionate about unlocking potential, nurturing curiosity, and instilling a lifelong love of learning. From January 2026, we will open a brand new 40 place nursery for 2-4 year olds, marking an exciting new era for our school.

Our facilities include:
- A modern building for Years 5 and 6 (opened in 2020)
- Extensive outdoor grounds
- A dedicated Wellbeing Hub
- An Autism Support Centre funded by Essex County Council

We pride ourselves on a strong team culture, with 15 dedicated teachers, skilled teaching assistants in every year group, and a leadership team that prioritises pupils in every decision.

As Head of School, you will:
- Lead the successful launch of our new nursery, ensuring it meets the needs of our community
- Oversee the delivery of excellent teaching and learning across the school
- Foster a culture where staff and pupils can thrive
- Strengthen relationships with parents and the local community
- Maintain high expectations and drive school improvement in partnership with the wider leadership team

Lift Schools is a diverse, inclusive network of 57 schools united by one mission: to deliver an excellent education to every child, in every classroom, every day. We believe every child deserves the best, regardless of background or ability, and we need outstanding leaders to make this happen.

How we'll support you
At Lift Schools, we believe talent drives performance. You'll benefit from:
- An individual development account of up to £100,000 over five years
- Experiential learning opportunities, including study tours
- One-to-one unlimited executive coaching
- High-quality, evidence-informed professional development
- A year-long induction programme
- The option of a professional sabbatical after five years
- A relocation package if moving for the role

Experience
Proven track record in primary education leadership, ready to step into headship with confidence and drive.

About you
- Believe deeply in the potential of every child, regardless of background
- Thrive on leading a school day-to-day while contributing to a shared long-term vision
- Bring high expectations for achievement alongside a compassionate, inclusive approach
- Value collaboration, relationships, and community engagement
- Self-aware and able to thrive in high challenge, high support environments
- Network-minded and committed to improving outcomes across all schools
- Intellectually curious and eager to use evidence-informed approaches to drive success

Qualifications
Relevant leadership qualifications and experience in primary education are expected. Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils is essential. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.