Welcome, and thank you for your interest in our Headteacher opportunity
Dear Applicant,
Welcome, and thank you for your interest in our exciting Co-Headteacher opportunity. We hope that the information we have provided encourages you to make an application to our warm and welcoming school.
Nuturing Future Excellence
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School is a warm, welcoming, and high-achieving rural school nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside. Judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2023, our school is proud of its nurturing ethos, inclusive values, and strong sense of community. We are proud of the true “family feel” our school has and as a small village school, we recognise the importance of building strong relationships with the families and community which we serve. Our size allows us to know every child as an individual, creating an environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential. This unique setting offers the incoming Co-Headteacher the chance to make a meaningful impact and lead with both heart and vision.
We are committed to “nurturing future excellence” by fostering curiosity, resilience, and kindness in every child. Our curriculum is underpinned by global, cultural and environmental drivers. It is our aim to equip our children to be respectful and responsible citizens who have the knowledge, compassion and empathy to thrive in the diverse world they are growing up in. With a dedicated team of staff, supportive families, and a vibrant learning environment, Scotton Lingerfield offers an exciting opportunity for an inspirational Co-Headteacher to help guide our school into its next chapter.
For an informal, confidential conversation about the role please email Ashley Benford, who has been engaged to support us with recruitment to this key role, or call on 07814 932 389. We would encourage you to come and visit in advance of your application and see for yourself the enthusiasm that our pupils have for their education. Such a visit is not part of the selection process, and whether applicants have visited will not influence the outcome. We would also encourage applicants to have a look at the school website and newsletters to get a feel for our school.
I hope you find the information provided useful and informative and that it will encourage you to apply. On behalf of the governing body, thank you again for your interest in Scotton Lingerfield Primary School.
Yours faithfully,
Rob Manton
Chair of Governors
Learn more about our Headteacher opportunity
Post: Co-Headteacher
Number on Roll: 94
Commencing: January 2026
Salary:
Contract Term: Permanent
Our Opportunity:
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School is a warm, welcoming, and high-achieving rural school nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside. Judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2023, we are proud of our nurturing ethos, inclusive values, and strong sense of community. As a small village school, we benefit from a close-knit environment where every child is known, valued, and supported to thrive.
We are seeking an inspirational and forward-thinking Co-Headteacher to join our leadership team and help guide the school through its next exciting chapter. You will work in close partnership with the existing Co-Head and Senior Leadership Team to build on our strengths and address key areas for development identified by Ofsted—particularly around curriculum consistency and the delivery of foundation subjects.
We are proud of our confident, polite, and enthusiastic pupils, who are eager to learn and supported by a dedicated and experienced staff team. As the number and complexity of SEND needs continues to grow, we are looking for a Co-Headteacher who can lead on improving staff knowledge and confidence in meeting a wide range of needs. You will also play a key role in maintaining strong relationships with external agencies, including the Local Authority, SEND hubs, and Early Help teams.
About You:
We are looking for a passionate and experienced leader who:
- Has up-to-date knowledge of educational research and current and emerging Ofsted policy and practice.
- Has experience of leading through an Ofsted inspection at a senior level.
- Is committed to delivering high-quality teaching and learning, with a particular focus on curriculum development and foundation subjects.
- Has a strong understanding of SEND and can lead staff in developing inclusive, effective classroom strategies.
- Values the importance of pastoral care and pupil wellbeing alongside academic achievement.
- Is financially aware and able to contribute to strategic planning in a context of increasing budget pressures.
- Builds strong, trusting relationships with staff, pupils, parents, governors, and the wider community.
- Is collaborative, reflective, and ready to share leadership in a Co-Headship model.
We can offer you:
- A happy and friendly school, with delightful children who respect each other and have a thirst for learning.
- A culture which allows all staff to thrive and develop.
- An opportunity to see the huge potential that exists and the time to make Scotton Lingerfield Primary School a beacon of excellence in primary education.
- Significant levels of support from the Local Authority, Diocese, Governing Board and a staff team who are experienced, committed and passionate about our school.
- A Governing Body committed to providing support on all matters including more sensitive or difficult issues and including the wellbeing of all staff members.
- The school is part of a Cluster where the Headteachers meet regularly. This provides a support network for sharing ideas and best practice.
For an informal, confidential conversation about the role please call Ashley 07814 932 389 or email. Ashley has been engaged to support us with recruitment to this exciting opportunity.
Key dates
Visits
We strongly recommend that you visit us so we can share with you why we are so proud of our school, and you will have the opportunity to see what we have to offer. If you would like the opportunity to visit at the start of the school term, please email Ashley
Application closing date:
Shortlisting:
Interviews:
Information About Our School
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School is located between the villages of Scotton, Lingerfield and Farnham in the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, known for its peaceful atmosphere. Our catchment covers these villages and the village of Brearton, with a number of pupils attending from the neighbouring town of Knaresborough. The school has use of the local field for sports and the village hall for community events. There is wrap around care provided from 8am until 5:45pm.
Scotton village is known for its strong sense of community with residents coming together for events throughout the year such a Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes spent some time in the village as teenager) and the annual Summer fete.
Our location gives us good connectivity to the popular towns of Knaresborough and Harrogate, is close to the cities of York whilst also having the North Yorkshire countryside on our doorstep. The school has use of the local field for sports and the village hall for community events. There is wrap around care provided from 8am until 5:45pm. We also benefit from having access to a woodland and our pupils enjoy forest school sessions (from an external provider) across all year groups.
Our Pupils
Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. They are confident, polite, and enthusiastic learners who take pride in their school and show a genuine interest in their learning.
Behaviour across the school is generally good, supported by our high expectations and a clear behaviour policy that is implemented when needed. Whilst we are proud of the positive conduct of our children, we recognise the importance of consistency across all staff to ensure expectations are upheld and every child is supported to thrive both academically and socially. We are looking for a Co-Headteacher who can introduce and implement a range of effective communication strategies, including for developing and maintaining high standards of attainment, behaviour, and attendance appropriate for the setting.
Ofsted recognised (2023): “Pupils are polite and courteous…Pupils move around school calmly. Older pupils play well with younger pupils at breaktimes and lunchtimes. This adds to a sense of community.”
Our Staffing Team
We are fortunate to have a team of experienced and dedicated teaching staff who are committed to the school and its pupils, fostering strong and positive relationships across the team. All class teachers, along with the Headteacher, take on subject leadership responsibilities, contributing to a collaborative and well-rounded approach to curriculum development
There are currently four classes that make up the school: EYFS, Y1/2, Y3/4 and Y5/6. Each class has support staff assigned to it. Our GTA works across all classes to provide pastoral support. Every class currently has a Teaching Assistant. One TA works 1:1 with a child with SEND
Currently we have one full time Headteacher (with a 0.2 teaching commitment) who is SENCo and DSL, two full time Teachers and three part time Teachers.
The headteacher is supported by two part time teachers, who take on the role of teacher in charge in the headteacher’s absence.
We have two part time administrators (total 1 FTE), one caretaker/cleaner and one cook. Lunch and breaks are covered by TAs, admin and SLT. All staff are trained in Paediatric first aid and the Headteacher is trained in workplace first aid
See more about our Staff Team here
Our Governing Body
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School is supported by an experienced and proactive Governing Body that works closely with school leadership to uphold high standards, champion the school’s vision, and ensure the best outcomes for all pupils.
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School fosters a welcoming environment centred on honesty, kindness, and respect. We recognize the uniqueness of each child and are dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive space where everyone can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Nurturing future excellence
Our high expectations encourage students to engage with curiosity and independence from an early age, cultivating a passion for lifelong learning. We nurture not just academic success but also emotional and social development, partnering with families and the community to enhance learning opportunities. Our vision is to prepare students to excel and face future challenges with confidence and resilience, promoting respect and empathy in a diverse world. We are seeking a Co-Headteacher who shares this vision—someone who is committed to inclusive leadership, inspires excellence, and fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and care.
Learning at Scotton Lingerfield Primary School
Our curriculum is driven by a clear intention: to provide children with rich learning experiences that help them develop a broad understanding of the world and an appreciation for the diverse cultures and beliefs that exist both within the UK and globally. We aim to nurture respectful, informed, and compassionate individuals who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. Our carefully designed curriculum meets the aims of the national curriculum while reflecting our school’s unique values and context. Situated in a rural part of North Yorkshire with limited local diversity, we place a strong emphasis on global, environmental, and cultural education to ensure our pupils gain the knowledge, understanding, and sense of responsibility needed to engage with the wider world.
Ofsted recognised (2023): “Pupils benefit from carefully considered cultural experiences woven throughout the curriculum. These broaden pupils’ experience of the world. Visits to places of worship, such as a mosque, increase pupils’ awareness of tolerance and respect for other faiths and beliefs. Roles such as pupil ambassadors and school councillors enable pupils to develop their skills in leadership.”
As we continue to evolve our curriculum, we are looking to refine it further by clearly identifying the key knowledge we expect pupils to retain. We are looking for a Co-Headteacher who will lead on the provision and delivery of high-quality teaching and learning, with a particular focus on strengthening the teaching of foundation subjects. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and forward-thinking leader to shape a curriculum that is both ambitious and inclusive, ensuring every child is inspired to achieve their full potential.
Wellbeing of Staff and Pupils
The wellbeing of our pupils and staff is a central priority at Scotton Lingerfield Primary School. We are proud to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported, and valued. As the number and complexity of SEND needs within our school continues to grow, we are committed to ensuring that all pupils receive the tailored support they need to thrive.
We are looking for a Co-Headteacher who can lead with empathy and expertise, and who will play a key role in strengthening staff knowledge and confidence in using effective strategies to meet a wide range of SEND needs.
Alongside this, we promote a positive, collaborative culture that supports the wellbeing of all staff and encourages professional growth. The Co-Headteacher who will join us will have bring knowledge of workforce development and the supervision of staff wellbeing and workload.
Relationships with parents, carers and the local community
Scotton Lingerfield Primary School enjoys strong, positive relationships with parents and the local community. Parents have high expectations of the school and are highly engaged in their children’s education, regularly supporting homework and attending consultation meetings. Communication between home and school is open and effective, fostering a shared commitment to pupil success. As a school we benefit from a proactive and generous PTA, which has funded a wide range of resources and events that enrich school life.
Community involvement is further strengthened through annual productions held in the village hall and the Frazer Theatre in Knaresborough, as well as performances by the school choir at local events and participation in Young Voices. The school has recently re-established links with the local church and continues to promote social responsibility through charity events organised by the school council. These strong partnerships create a vibrant, supportive environment where children can flourish.
Relationship with LA
We maintain a strong and constructive relationship with the Local Authority, working closely with the LA’s Senior Education Adviser and operate in line with their expectations and guidance. The school actively engages with key LA networks, including those for SENCOs, EYFS, and PSHE, ensuring we remain informed and aligned with best practice. We also access support from the SEND hubs and Early Help teams when appropriate, enabling us to respond effectively to the needs of our pupils and families
Wider networks
We work closely with HART alliance and attend training and network meetings. We also work with Red Kite supporting student teachers. As part of the Ripon Rural cluster, we meet up each term with other small schools to offer mutual support and organize cluster events for pupils.
We are aware that there is little diversity in our school and local population. With this in mind we have made links with an inner-city school in Leeds through The Linking Programme.
Ofsted
We were judged “Good” by Ofsted in our mot recent inspection in June 2023. Areas for improvement were identified as:
In some subjects, leaders have not clearly defined the knowledge that pupils should learn as they progress through the school. Some pupils do not develop the depth of knowledge that they could in some subjects. Leaders should further develop the curriculum to support pupils to build their knowledge over time so that they are able to make connections within subjects and across the curriculum.
The new Co-Headteacher will play a key role in driving continued school improvement in close partnership with their Co-Head and the Senior Leadership Team. Together, they will address the areas for development identified by Ofsted, including strengthening curriculum delivery and ensuring consistency in teaching and learning across the school. We are seeking a Co-Headteacher with up-to-date knowledge of educational research and a strong understanding of current and emerging Ofsted policy and practice. Experience of leading through an Ofsted inspection at a senior level is essential, as is the ability to translate insight into action. The successful candidate will support staff in embedding high expectations and effective strategies that lead to sustained, positive outcomes for all pupils.
Read more about our last Ofsted Inspection here
Pupil achievement, attainment and progress
We are proud of what our pupils achieve at Scotton Lingerfield. We have a very strong EYFS team, providing children with an excellent start to school. Teaching in core subjects across school is strong with children achieving outcomes that are significantly better than national. Our pupils have consistently achieved higher than national at KS1 and KS2 for the last 5 years.
PE, music, computing and languages are subjects which require regular practice to secure skills. As a result, we teach these subjects weekly. Sport is strong in our school and we currently hold the platinum school games award. Children have a wide range of opportunities in music and performing arts.
While we are committed to ensuring strong academic outcomes for our pupils, we place equal importance on their pastoral care and personal development. Supporting the emotional wellbeing and holistic growth of every child is a key priority for our school. We are looking for a Co-Headteacher who will continue to champion this balanced approach, ensuring that the pastoral needs of our pupils remain at the heart of our provision.
Budget position
The school is currently in a stable financial position, with a significant carry forward. However, this year marked the first in-year deficit, and current projections indicate the school may move into an overall deficit position within the next three years if trends continue. In response, the school is actively working to increase pupil numbers by filling spaces in lower year groups and is managing staffing levels carefully - reducing support staff through natural turnover while maintaining sufficient provision for pupils. The Governing body monitors the budget closely and regularly, identifying opportunities to reduce costs and ensure financial sustainability without compromising the quality of education and support. Our new Co-Headteacher will be expected to manage the school budget and budgetary pressures. Working closely with their fellow Co-Head to ensure stability and sustainability.
Short and Mid-term Priorities
- Teaching and learning in foundation subject areas to be as strong as it is in core subjects.
- Strengthen teachers’ confidence to support pupils with SEND
- Continue to embed No Outsiders inclusive education resources
Long term Ambitions
- Continue to embed a nurturing approach across school.
- Establish a structure that offers stability financially for the school
- Maintain and build upon the high standards achieved to date.
Future Considerations
- The current budget forecast indicates that the school is heading towards a deficit.
- Academisation
- Federation
Future Challenges
- Responding effectively to the growing number and complexity of SEND needs within the school.
- Embed any changes that come from the curriculum review
North Yorkshire is England's largest county and one of the most rural. The area comprises the Yorkshire Dales (opens in a new tab) and North York Moors (opens in a new tab), three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a stunning coastline around Scarborough and Whitby. There are ruined castles and abbeys, serene gardens, unique breweries, thrilling rides and industrial heritage. The area hosted the phenomenal Tour de France ‘Grand Depart’ in 2014 and has since created the Tour de Yorkshire, an annual event with global recognition. Our success in supporting these events led to Harrogate hosting the UCI Cycling World Championships in 2019.
North Yorkshire has plenty to offer the outdoor enthusiast. From the hard gritstone of Almscliff and Brimham rocks to the limestone of Malham, Gordale and Kilnsey climbing venues are in abundance. The Yorkshire Dales is the premier area for caving and for mountain biking; there are the bridleways of the Dales and North York Moors as well as the renowned trail centre at Dalby Forest. There are a small number of sailing clubs on reservoirs around the county and fantastic surfsport venues and sea kayaking on the east coast.
While the county is rightly known for its wide open spaces, it also incorporates attractive market towns including Pickering and Helmsley, traditional seaside towns, the Spa town of Harrogate and the ancient city of York - the most visited city outside of London. There are a wide range of shopping, leisure and cultural facilities as well as excellent schools, universities, road and rail links, there really is everything to offer you and your family as a place to work, live and enjoy!
Travelling further afield we have convenient connectivity, with close proximity to metropolitan cities of Leeds and Newcastle, with little over two hours commute on the main train line to London. We border the Lake District, Lancashire, County Durham, and Yorkshire & Humber regions with all they have to offer.
Information About Application and Guidance
When applying please consider the following supporting documents:
Download Person Specification - Headteacher (.docx) [163 KB] (opens in a new tab)
Download Job Description - Headteacher (.docx) [91 KB] (opens in a new tab)
Application guidance, including policy statement on the recruitment of ex-offenders
The supporting information section of your application should clearly evidence your ability to meet the requirements we have outlined in the person specification. This will be used to shortlist applicants for this role and therefore it is imperative that you provide evidence as requested.
References
When completing your application, please provide two employment referees.
Your application plays an important part in your selection. As part of the application process, you may have been asked to demonstrate within this application form how you meet some or all of the criteria or key competencies outlined in the person specification. The supporting information section of your application should clearly evidence your ability to meet these requirements. This will be used to shortlist applicants for this role and therefore it is imperative that you provide evidence as requested. Rather than simply repeating your career history, look at the skills and experience required by the job and provide evidence that you possess them by giving specific and detailed examples which include a focus on outcomes and on your own contribution to the scenario. Try to use different and varied examples wherever possible.
When completing these sections, do not forget the skills and experience you have gained outside full-time work. Outlining your previous work experience or other responsibilities may help you to uncover skills which you have taken for granted and which are clear signs of your ability to do the job.
Should you require the application form in a different format, please contact Resourcing Solutions.
Canvassing
Should your application be for a local authority school, you must not try to influence an elected Council Member, any council employee or a member of the school governing body, to act in your favour, as this will disqualify you. If you are related to a Councillor, a Council employee or a governor you must indicate this in the relevant section of the application form.
Data Protection
North Yorkshire Council (NYC) advertise vacancies and process applications on behalf of schools and external organisations (third parties) in North Yorkshire. NYC are not responsible for the recruitment/employment practices of third parties and accept no liability in relation to the vacancy and any subsequent recruitment/employment processes. Further information on how we process your data can be found by reading our privacy notice.
Rehabilitation of Offenders
The post you are applying for requires you to have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service criminal records check for work with children, with a barred list check if you work in regulated activity. This check for disclosure of criminal history will include spent convictions, pending prosecutions / current court proceeding and police enquiries.
Should you be shortlisted, you will be asked to disclose full details of your criminal history prior to your interview. This includes any information deemed relevant as part of Keeping Children Safe in Education which may arise in an online search undertaken on shortlisted candidates. This information may be discussed with you at your interview in order to assess job related risks, but we emphasise that your application will be considered on merit and ability and you will not be discriminated against unfairly. Failure to disclose this information will result in any offer of employment being withdrawn.
Please also see the policy statement on the Recruitment of Ex-offenders below.
Policy Statement on the Recruitment of Ex-offenders (Source www.gov.uk)
- As an organisation assessing applicants’ suitability for positions which are included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order using criminal record checks processed through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), this school complies fully with the DBS code of practice and undertakes to treat all applicants for positions fairly.
- This school undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a criminal record check on the basis of a conviction or other information revealed.
- This school can only ask an individual to provide details of convictions and cautions that it is legally entitled to know about. Where a DBS certificate can legally be requested (where the position is one that is included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) order 1975 as amended, and where appropriate Policy Act Regulations as amended) this school can only ask an individual about convictions and cautions that are not protected.
- This school is committed to the fair treatment of its staff and potential staff, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependents, age, physical/mental disability or offending background.
- This school has this written policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders, which is made available to all DBS applicants at the start of the recruitment process.
- This school actively promotes equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential and welcome applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records. Candidates are selected for interview based on their skills, qualifications and experience and criminal record information is only requested from short-listed candidates.
- A disclosure is only requested from the DBS after a thorough risk assessment has indicated that one is both proportionate and relevant to the position concerned. For those positions where a criminal record check is identified as necessary, all application forms, job adverts and recruitment briefs will contain a statement that a DBS certificate will be requested in the event of the individual being offered the position.
- This school ensures that all those who are involved in the recruitment process have been suitably trained to identify and assess the relevance and circumstances of offences.
- This school also ensures that they have received appropriate guidance and training in the relevant legislation relating to the employment of ex-offenders, e.g. the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
- At interview, or in a separate discussion, this school ensures that an open and measured discussion takes place on the subject of any offences or other matter that might be relevant to the position. Failure to reveal information that is directly relevant to the position sought could lead to withdrawal of an offer of employment.
- This school makes every subject of a criminal record check submitted to DBS aware of the existence of the code of practice and makes a copy available on request.
- This school undertakes to discuss any matter revealed on a DBS certificate with the individual seeking the position before withdrawing a conditional offer of employment.
References
When completing your application, please provide two employment referees. One of these must be from your most recent employer.
Apply now for our Headteacher opportunity
We are committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and aim to have a workforce reflecting this diversity. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We have a robust child protection and safeguarding policy. and all staff will receive training relevant to their role at induction and throughout employment at the school. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Please note this post is in regulated activity and exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS criminal records and barred list check for work with children. An online search may be undertaken as part of the recruitment process on information available in the public domain. Candidates should disclose anything that may be relevant in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.