Welcome!

Dear Prospective Candidate,

Northlands Wood Primary Academy is a large, well-established primary school that sits at the heart of its community. With over 400 pupils on roll, the school is well organised, values-driven, and outward looking. Our ethos, “Together we learn and grow”, reflects the importance we place on collaboration between staff, families, governors and the wider Trust. The incoming Headteacher will inherit a school with secure foundations and a strong sense of shared purpose.

This role offers the opportunity to lead a school with a clear vision and well-embedded expectations. Children feel safe, included, and supported, and staff work within consistent systems and routines that enable high standards to be maintained. There is a strong focus on developing confident, independent, and cooperative learners, alongside high expectations for behaviour and achievement. The next Headteacher will be well placed to shape the strategic direction of the school while building on established strengths.

Behaviour at Northlands Wood is a key strength. Our approach is rooted in respect, clarity and consistency, with a strong emphasis on behaviour for learning. Pupils understand expectations, take responsibility for their actions, and contribute positively to school life. This creates a calm and purposeful environment in which teaching and learning can flourish. The incoming Headteacher will have the opportunity to sustain this culture while continuing to refine and develop practice.

The curriculum is broad, structured, and adaptable, designed to meet the needs of a diverse community. Learning builds progressively on prior knowledge, and is enriched through outdoor learning, Forest School provision, and a range of wider experiences. There is scope for the next Headteacher to further develop curriculum coherence, ensuring strong outcomes for all groups of pupils and continuing to strengthen inclusive practice across the school.

Northlands Wood benefits from a committed and experienced staff team, a well-resourced learning environment, and positive engagement from families, including an active Parents, Teachers and Friends Association. Wraparound care and extra-curricular provision are well established and support the needs of the community. The new Headteacher will work with a team that is open to reflection and continuous improvement.

As part of Sussex Learning Trust, the school is supported by a clear governance structure and strong professional networks, with a range of opportunities for leadership development. This is an exciting opportunity for a Headteacher who is ready to lead a large primary school, work collaboratively within a Trust, and shape the next phase of Northlands Wood Primary Academy with confidence and clarity.

I look forward to receiving your application, and please get in touch if you have any questions.

Best wishes,
Adam Bromage-Hughes (Chair of Governors)
Steve Davis (Director of Primary, Sussex Learning Trust)