Principal

Salary: Headteacher Group 7: STPCD L32 – L38 (£110,892 – £128,447)Contract Type: Full Time, PermanentLocation: The Sutton Academy, Elton Head Road, St. Helens, WA9 5AUStart Date: September 2026 / January 2027 (subject to candidate notice periods) The Challenge Academy Trust is seeking an exceptional and visionary Principal to lead The Sutton Academy, a thriving and well-established 11–18 secondary academy located in St Helens, Merseyside, into its next exciting chapter. This is a unique opportunity for an inspirational leader with proven senior management experience in a secondary setting to drive excellence and innovation.We are resolute in our belief that schools make a difference. Lives and the communities that they serve are transformed by them. Every child deserves the right to a world class education, and it is our core purpose to raise aspirations and improve outcomes for all. The academy ethos is built around the highest expectations of all, and we see it as our duty to ensure that students have the best life chances possible, leaving the academy well prepared to take their place in the world as confident and responsible adults. As Principal, you will be the leading professional at the academy, accountable to the Local Governing Challenge Board (LGCB) and the Trust Board. You will provide vision, leadership, and direction, ensuring the academy is managed and organised to meet its aims and ambitions. You will also play a key role in The Challenge Academy Trust’s Central Executive Team, contributing to the strategic direction of the trust and collaborating with other Principals and Headteachers to advance educational outcomes. Key ResponsibilitiesProvide inspirational, strategic, and operational leadership to ensure continued school improvement and academic excellence.Foster a culture of high expectations, equity, and aspiration for all.Work collaboratively with The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) and other stakeholders to maximise opportunities for students and staff alike.Champion staff development, wellbeing, and innovation in teaching and learning.Ensure an inclusive, safe, and nurturing environment where all students can thrive. Requirements The successful candidate will:Have a proven track record of successful senior leadership in a secondary setting.Demonstrate drive, resilience, and integrity to lead with conviction and compassion.Show a clear commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and promoting high standards.Exhibit the ability to unite and inspire staff, students, parents, and the wider community.Possess a deep understanding of educational improvement, curriculum development, and effective school systems. You can learn more about The Sutton Academy and The Challenge Academy Trust via the links below:The Sutton AcademyOur Prospectus – The Sutton AcademyThe Challenge Academy Trust – TCAT Warrington To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Andrew Moorcroft, TCAT CEO, via email: a.moorcroft@tcat.uk.com or Victoria Briggs, TCAT Director of Education, via email: v.briggs@tcat.uk.com Tours of the school can be arranged on request by contacting Victoria Briggs, TCAT Director of Education, via email: v.briggs@tcat.uk.com How to Apply:Online via this link: The Sutton Academy – PrincipalThe closing date for applications is noon on Thursday 07 May 2026Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an assessment centre, to be held at the academy on Wednesday 20