Dorset Council UK
Headteacher at Dorchester Middle School
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Salary Group 4: (L16 -22); £75,049 - £86,803
(There may be some flexibility around the salary range for an exceptional candidate)
Start date: 1st January 2027
The vacancy arises as a result of the re-location of the previous postholder to Dubai, following an outstanding period of success for the school. It is an opportunity to take Dorchester Middle School to the next stage on its exciting school improvement journey, working within a thriving and successful MAT.
About the Wessex MAT
The Wessex MAT is made up of a family of 12 schools based in West Dorset. We cover the full age range from nursery through to post-16 and we are fiercely inclusive. Although we work together closely and collaboratively, we do not believe in cloning schools or working to a formula. Schools retain a unique position in their local community pursuing common values and aspirations. We encourage innovation and we want staff to feel confident about testing boundaries. That is the route towards great schools for all.
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Our mantra is ‘learning is everything’. What goes on in the classroom is the most important part of our work and everyone who works for Wessex MAT, in whatever role or capacity, contributes towards that vision. That is why we put so much time and effort into continuous professional learning. Everyone is expected to be involved in some form of learning or development, which may or may not lead to formal qualifications.
We are ambitious to become both an educator and employer of choice. Therefore, we work hard to create the best possible working conditions where staff feel supported and valued. Richard Branson said that we should, ‘train people well enough so they can leave for any job they want but treat them well enough so they don’t want to’. That resonates with our own philosophy.
About Dorchester Middle School
Dorchester Middle School is located on a green field site in the centre of the county town. It is at the heart of the community, making the most of the surrounding environment, catering for the full range of children aged between 9-13 including a physical disability base.
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The school has a strong history and tradition, and we are looking for someone with a positive and confident outlook who can build on that legacy and establish the school as a leading force within the MAT.
What We Offer
- A strategic leadership role at the heart of a growing, forward-thinking Trust
- A collaborative, supportive and values-driven working environment
- High-quality professional development
- A generous benefits package including pension scheme, health cash plan, bike and tech salary sacrifice schemes, wellbeing support and more
Key Dates
Closing date: Wednesday 16th September 2026 (noon)
Interviews: Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd September 2026
An application pack with further details, including how to apply, can be found on the Wessex website: www.wessex.ac
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