Head of Primary (Assistant Principal)

Atlantic Academy – Portland, Dorset
Permanent | Full Time | Start September 2026
Salary: Leadership Scale L2-L7

Closing Date: Thursday 21st May 2026, 9:00am
Interviews: Friday 22nd May 2026

Inspire Excellence. Shape Childhoods. Lead With Purpose.

Atlantic Academy is seeking an exceptional and ambitious leader to become our next Head of Primary (Assistant Principal - a rare opportunity to shape the educational journey of children within a thriving all-through academy on the stunning Jurassic Coast.

This is more than a leadership role. It is an opportunity to transform lives, build a culture of excellence and ensure every child develops the confidence, curiosity and character to flourish.

As a member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the strategic development of the primary phase, driving high standards in teaching, learning, behaviour and personal development while creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

Why This Role Matters

Atlantic Academy is on an exciting journey of improvement. Over the past year, we have continued to raise expectations across the academy, embedding a culture of consistency, ambition and disruption-free learning.

The primary phase is central to our vision for excellence across an all-through educational journey. We are seeking a leader who can build on this momentum — someone who combines warmth, ambition and uncompromising expectations to secure exceptional outcomes for every child.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Shape the strategic direction of the primary phase

• Lead and inspire a committed team of staff

• Drive outstanding teaching and learning

• Build a culture where children feel safe, valued and inspired

• Influence whole-academy improvement as part of the Senior Leadership Team

For ambitious leaders aspiring to future senior leadership or Principalship, this role offers outstanding scope for professional growth within the supportive and innovative network of the Aspirations Academies Trust.

For further information, please contact:

Miss Melissa Heppell - Principal
[email protected]
01305 820262

Safeguarding & Equality

We value the diversity of our workforce and welcome applications from all sectors of the community.

The Aspirations Academies Trust requires all prospective employees appointed to work in its academies, and whose role will involve regulated activity, to submit an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate prior to taking up appointment.

Applicants are required, before appointment, to disclose any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not ‘protected’ as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013).

Disclosure of a criminal background does not automatically debar individuals from employment; relevant factors will be considered.

If you have not heard by Friday 22nd May 2026, unfortunately you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Our Vision

At Atlantic Academy, we believe education changes lives.

“By providing an exceptional all-through education, we will transform the lives of every student - nurturing their self-worth, inspiring engagement in learning, and guiding them to discover a strong sense of purpose.”

Together with the vision of the Aspirations Academies Trust:

“To empower future generations to follow their dreams and to build a society of which we can all be proud.”

The Opportunity

As Head of Primary (Assistant Principal) you will:

• Provide strategic leadership for the primary phase

• Drive high standards of teaching, learning and achievement

• Lead curriculum development and ensure excellent outcomes for all pupils

• Champion high expectations in behaviour, attendance and personal development

• Inspire and develop staff through coaching and professional support

• Build strong relationships with families and the wider community

• Contribute to whole-academy improvement as a member of the Senior Leadership Team

• Create a culture where every child feels known, supported and challenged to succeed

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Has successful leadership experience within a primary setting

• Has a strong track record of raising standards and improving outcomes

• Is an exceptional classroom practitioner with deep knowledge of effective pedagogy

• Can inspire, motivate and develop others

• Leads with integrity, visibility and positivity

• Has the energy, resilience and ambition to make a lasting difference

• Believes passionately in inclusive education and opportunity for every child

Why Atlantic Academy?

• A values-driven culture built on ambition, consistency and care

• A collaborative and committed staff team

• The opportunity to shape provision within a unique all-through academy

• Extensive professional development and career progression opportunities

• A stunning coastal location on the Jurassic Coast

• The chance to make a genuine and lasting impact on young lives

About Us

Atlantic Academy Portland is an all-through academy serving the community of Portland and the surrounding area. As proud members of the Aspirations Academies Trust, we work collaboratively across a strong national network committed to innovation, excellence and opportunity for all.

Ready to Lead the Future?

If you are ready to inspire children, lead with purpose and shape the future of primary education at Atlantic Academy, we would love to hear from you.