Head of Sixth Form - Full-time

The Whitstable School, Whitstable

• Ref:KCC886-4091-570T
• Posted:07/05/2026
• Pay:MPS/UPS + TLR1C
• Start Date:September 2026
• App Close Date:22/05/2026 at 15:00
• Interviews:w/c 1st June 2026

Advert

Are you ready to shape the future of a vibrant and rapidly growing Sixth Form?

We are seeking an ambitious, dynamic, and visionary leader to take our Sixth Form provision to the next stage of its development. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to build on an already strong foundation and play a pivotal role in realising a bold, forward-thinking vision for post-16 education.

Our Sixth Form is thriving — characterised by a positive culture, strong relationships, and a clear commitment to academic success. We are proud of the high-quality teaching and learning that underpins student achievement, and we are now looking for a leader who will drive this even further, embedding consistently high standards across all areas of provision.

As Head of Sixth Form, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership for the continued growth and development of the Sixth Form
• Champion excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring consistently high-quality classroom practice
• Establish and sustain a culture of high expectations, where all students are supported and challenged to achieve their very best
• Inspire students to become confident, independent learners, fully prepared for their next steps
• Work closely with the Headteacher and senior leadership team to align the Sixth Form with the wider school vision
• You will lead a well-structured and highly supportive Sixth Form team

This role offers a unique opportunity to help reshape the Sixth Form experience. As numbers continue to grow, we are evolving towards a more college-style model, including the potential for a broader, more flexible curriculum and an extended day, with teaching and enrichment opportunities reaching later into the afternoon.

We welcome applications from leaders with a range of subject specialisms; however, the ability to teach Criminology at Key Stage 5 would be an advantage.

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has a proven track record of outstanding teaching and impactful leadership
• Is passionate about post-16 education and student outcomes
• Can think strategically while delivering operational excellence
• Has the drive, creativity, and resilience to lead change and inspire others
• Is committed to inclusion, aspiration, and ensuring every student can succeed

If you are ready to take on a role that combines strategic vision with tangible impact, we would love to hear from you. We understand the importance of work-life balance and will give due consideration to requests for flexible working.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

School may undertake online searches of any candidates as part of the Shortlisting Process.

Applications will be considered upon being received. Interviews may take place prior to the closing date.

Swale Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  This post is exempt from ROA and will require an enhanced DBS disclosure

Swale Academies Trust schools will conduct an online check of shortlisted candidates in line with the Keeping Children Safe In Education guidelines.

Information about the school

Ready to join us?

If you are interested in this post and require further information or would like an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact us at TWS_hr@swale.at.

We are happy to discuss any support you may need during your application process as part of our reasonable adjustment approach.

In accordance with current GDPR compliance we will not keep any details / application forms on file once the position is filled.

The Whitstable School, under the stewardship of its Headteacher Mr Alex Holmes, is charting an ambitious course towards excellence while ensuring inclusivity every step of the way. As a new era unfolds, the school stands ready to redefine its role in the community – not merely as an educational institution but as a hub of innovation, opportunity and personal growth.

Situated in the heart of Whitstable, Kent, the secondary school’s fresh vision aims to cater to the needs of its current students, as well as inspire future generations of prospective students.

At the heart of Mr Holmes’ vision is a commitment to provide a holistic educational experience – one that recognises the diverse talents and aspirations of every student. Central to this ethos is the belief that academic achievement should be complemented by a robust creative and vocational pathway. Thus, the school is expanding its GCSE offerings to include construction and bolstering its investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics enrichment.

The Whitstable School is also broadening its A-level curriculum, introducing a suite of exciting new qualifications to accommodate the evolving needs of its student body, while a partnership agreement with Football Futures underscores the school’s dedication to nurturing regional football talent.

Acknowledging the impact of extracurricular activities, Mr Holmes has introduced new roles such as Enrichment Coordinator, aimed at diversifying the range of trips and rewards available to students. This commitment to broadening horizons and celebrating success extends to the very fabric of the school’s culture, with an emphasis on fostering a supportive environment where every student can thrive.

Through a redesigned curriculum model, The Whitstable School is prioritising the development of leadership skills, ensuring that students across all year groups have the opportunity to lead, inspire and make a tangible impact within their community.

Swale Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  This post is exempt from ROA and will require an enhanced DBS disclosure

Swale Academies Trust schools will conduct an online check of shortlisted candidates in line with the Keeping Children Safe In Education guidelines.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Anna Rimmington
• Address:The Whitstable School, Bellevue Road, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 1PX
• Telephone: 01227 931300
• Email: tws-hr@swale.at

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Recruitment Pack
• Full advert wording