Aldridge Education
Head of School - DVHS
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Head of School – DVHS
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Job Roles: Headteacher
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Monday, 21st September 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 1st October 2026
Expected Working Start Date: January 2026
Visa Sponsorship Available: No
Is a Shared Job: No
About the School
Darwen Vale High School is more than its recent Ofsted recognition it is a community built on shared vision and ambition. Guided by the Aldridge principle of “no child left behind”, DVHS strives to be a beacon of excellence in Darwen.
“We champion a safe, inclusive culture of high aspirations and achievement, where everyone is inspired to excel and take pride in all they do. By promoting responsibility, independent thinking and respect for diversity, we prepare learners to thrive as outstanding members of our community.”
Our Vale Values:
- We Aim High
- We Work Hard
- We Care
These values shape everything we do, ensuring every student receives an excellent education and is ready for the wider world.
About the Role
The role of Head of School requires the postholder to lead Darwen Vale High school on a day-to-day basis. Based upon the Job Description for Principal, much of the tasks align with the post of school leader. Some key responsibilities are removed due to the close support and guidance from the relevant Executive Principal, which is far more substantial for a Head of School than a Principal. The Head of School will build and maintain the school culture, run the building daily, ensure that all processes, policies and systems work well and ensure that all improvement required takes place efficiently and effectively.
Reasons to use Rodeo
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.
It 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.
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.
The postholder builds strong relationships with all stakeholders and works closely with other school leaders and with officers of Aldridge Education. The postholder is line managed by the Executive Principal, who will own and deliver the Trust strategy within this school, along with the group of schools they oversee. The Head of School is a new post and will work closely with the substantive Executive Principal to manage many aspects of school life on a day-to-day basis.
We are offering two opportunities for prospective candidates to visit the school prior to submitting an application. This is a chance to meet the Executive Principal, look around the school and gain a better understanding of the role and our school community.
Visits will take place on the following days:
- Thursday 17th September 2026 at 9am
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Key Benefits of working for Aldridge Education
Join the Aldridge Education Family!
Looking for a fulfilling career with great perks? Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme – Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme – Your well-being matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities – Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Site Parking – No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave – Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
- Pension Schemes – Secure your future with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme – Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Aldridge Education, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your 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