We operate a bilingual policy. All applicants are invited to apply in Welsh, any application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application made in English.

Headteacher – St Padarn’s Roman Catholic Primary School

Closing date: 12/04/2026

Reference: REQ106588

32.5 hours / Permanent

64,174 - 74,384 *

Aberystwyth

*All salary values are pro-rata.

About the role

St Padarn’s RC Primary School is a welcoming, diverse and inclusive school community with a strong Catholic ethos at its heart. As the only Roman Catholic primary school in Ceredigion, the school plays a unique role within its local community and parish, fostering strong relationships with families, the Church and wider partners.

The school is proud of its positive inspection outcomes and the good progress pupils make across a broad and engaging curriculum. It is forward-looking and ambitious, with a clear commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. Current developments include an exciting transition towards becoming a Category 2 dual-language school and participation in national projects supporting educational enquiry and future-focused learning.

With funding secured for new facilities through the Sustainable Communities for Learning programme, this is an exciting time to join the school and shape its next chapter.

The Role

The governing body is seeking an inspirational and committed Headteacher to lead the school into its next phase of development. This role offers the opportunity to provide strong, values-driven leadership, ensuring the continued growth of the school’s Catholic ethos while delivering high-quality education for all pupils.

You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the school, leading teaching and learning, and developing staff to achieve high standards. Working closely with governors, staff, parents and the wider community, you will build on existing strengths while driving forward school improvement and innovation.

A key aspect of the role will be leading the continued development of the Welsh language across the school, supporting its transition to a dual-language setting and strengthening its cultural identity.

The Welsh language is desirable with the need to be able to communicate through Welsh and English as a skill that could be developed while in the role.

What We’re Looking For

  • A practising Catholic with a strong commitment to Catholic education and ethos
  • Qualified Teacher Status and NPQH
  • Proven leadership experience at senior level within a primary setting
  • A clear vision for school improvement and the ability to deliver impact
  • Strong understanding of teaching, learning and curriculum development
  • Ability to inspire, motivate and develop staff, pupils and the wider community
  • Commitment to promoting and developing the Welsh language and culture
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

Why Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to lead a distinctive and values-led school at an exciting point in its journey. St Padarn’s offers a strong sense of community, supportive governance and a dedicated staff team committed to delivering the very best for its pupils.

You will have the opportunity to shape the future direction of the school, lead significant developments including new facilities, and further strengthen its role within both the Catholic community and the wider educational landscape.

Job Description

Start Date: 1 September 2026

Closing Date: Sunday 12 April 2026

Interviews: Thursday 23 April 2026

Note: We reserve the right to extend the application closing date.

We are committed to safeguarding and protecting children and adults at risk. As part of this commitment, certain roles within our organisation require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to assess the suitability of candidates. This role will require an Enhanced DBS check. Please note that the presence of previous convictions will not necessarily disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. We assess each applicant on a case-by-case basis, and take into account the nature and relevance of any convictions in relation to the responsibilities of the role. Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive work environment where all individuals are treated fairly and with respect. If you have any concerns or questions regarding this process, please feel free to contact us for clarification. Your privacy and dignity are of utmost importance to us throughout the recruitment process.

What we offer

Work-life balance

Lifestyle savings scheme

Generous employer pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Learning and development

Where you'll work

Schools and Culture

We offer appropriate challenge and support to our schools, to help them deliver first class education to all pupils, across the age and ability range. Our primary functions are as follows: 

  • School Improvement: Leadership; Support and Challenge, Teaching and Learning; Digital Literacy; Literacy and Numeracy; Welsh in Education
  • Additional Learning Needs: Provision for pupils with Additional Learning Needs, Inclusion; Attendance; Educational Psychology
  • Pupil Wellbeing:Counselling; Welfare; Anti-Bullying, Pupil Voice
  • Education Governance: Data ; Governor Support, Policy support
  • School Admissions
  • Culture: Music Service; Cered; Felinfach Theatre; Museum
  • Infrastructure and Resources: Planning School Places; Modernisation and Twenty First Century Schools Programme; Buildings; Grants
  • Catering: Day Centres; Primary Schools; Residential homes.
  • Childcare Unit: Childcare Sufficiency Assessment; Childcare & Play Grant; Childcare Offer; Out of School (After School Clubs and Holiday Playschemes); Day Nursery, Cylch/Playgroup & Childminder business support and staff training
Aberystwyth
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