Suffolk Jobs Direct
Executive Headteacher

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Copdock and Bentley Primary Federation
-
Address: Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3HY
-
Salary: (L10-L16) £64,690 - £74,048 per annum
-
Hours: Full Time (Job share considered)
-
Contract: Permanent
-
Reference: 5480, required from September 2027
Are you an inspiring and experienced school leader seeking your next challenge?
Due to the forthcoming retirement of our Executive Headteacher, an exciting opportunity has arisen to join our small, friendly village school Federation.
We are seeking an inspirational and strategic leader who will build on our many strengths, champion high aspirations for all, and continue to develop a culture where children flourish both academically and personally.
About the role
As Executive Headteacher, you will:
- lead and inspire two small, thriving primary schools
- raise standards and drive continuous school improvement
- champion curriculum development and staff professional growth
- oversee budgeting and resource management across the Federation
- foster strong community partnerships and stakeholder engagement
- promote a culture that encourages collaboration, where best practice is shared in order to secure the best outcomes for pupils.
What we can offer you:
- a supportive and proactive Governing Board
- a supportive and collaborative staff team that is committed to best practice and raising attainment
- opportunities for ongoing professional development
- small class sizes and a highly collaborative and committed staff team
- enthusiastic and well-behaved children
- supportive parents and PTA
- potential for flexible working arrangements (jobshare)
- the unique challenges and rewards of leading two small village schools
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
We are looking for:
- a highly motivated, positive individual with strong communication skills
- an experienced and effective primary leader, with strong organisational skills and a passion for raising standards
- a proven track record of raising attainment with evidence of impact
- a person skilled in curriculum leadership, staff development, and financial management
- a collaborative approach and commitment to the support, progress and development of every child and staff member in our schools, with the management skills to achieve this
- the ability to build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents/carers and the wider communities
- a commitment to inclusive practice and high.
To find out more
For further information please see our schools’ website [http://www.bentleycopdock.co.uk/].


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
We strongly encourage prospective applicants to visit our schools and experience first-hand the warmth, commitment and sense of community that make Bentley and Copdock such special places to learn and work. Visits can be arranged between 5th - 16th October. To arrange your visit please contact either of the school offices, 01473 310253 (Bentley) or 01473 730337 (Copdock).
How to apply
For an application pack and further details, please contact Headteacher Recruitment at: headships@suffolk.gov.uk [headships@suffolk.gov.uk].
Closing date: 9am, 2 November 2026
Interview date: 16 and 17 November 2026
Our Federation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments will be subject to a satisfactory completion of safeguarding checks. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING
To apply, please follow the application process detailed above.
This job does not have a Suffolk Jobs Direct online application form.
The ‘Apply Now’ button below only allows you to submit a job alert, not an online application.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Location