Principal of Leeds East Academy

Post Reference:        2595

Academy:                 Leeds East Academy 

Job Title:                     Principal

Grade:                       Leadership 34 to 38 (£111,976 to £123,506)

Hours:                         Full time

Accountable to:       Executive Principal

Leeds East Academy is a vibrant, over-subscribed 11-16 academy driven by a clear purpose: to improve the life chances of our young people. Guided by our core values of resilience, integrity, trust, and ambition, we strive to create a community where every student feels a deep sense of belonging and is empowered to achieve their full potential. As a highly inclusive school, we are determined to ensure that all students, regardless of their starting point, can thrive in a supportive and ambitious environment, driving everyone to be exceptional.

In 2024, Ofsted recognised our ongoing improvement, rating us as ‘Good’ in Leadership & Management, Behaviour & Attitudes, and Personal Development. This reflects our unwavering focus on providing a safe, respectful, and aspirational environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. In recent years, our academy has undergone significant transformation and responsiveness to the changing educational landscape. We are a forward-looking school unafraid to push boundaries, embrace new challenges, and continuously develop our practice.

As proud members of the High-Performance Learning international community, we firmly believe that every child can excel given the right culture and climate. Our inclusive and ambitious ethos is built on the belief that exceptional outcomes are possible for all. We do not just teach – we nurture, inspire, and equip young people with the skills and character they need to lead successful lives and contribute positively to society.

Leeds East Academy is part of White Rose Academies Trust, a local trust dedicated to raising aspirations and unlocking the potential of young people across Leeds. Together, we are committed to delivering a world-class education and creating life-changing opportunities for all.

Role:

The White Rose Academies Trust is looking for a Principal for Leeds East Academy.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead a vibrant, diverse, and ambitious school community, and to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in the city.

As Principal, you will be accountable for the overall educational performance and welfare of all students within the academy. You will report directly to the Trust and be responsible for ensuring that the academy delivers outstanding outcomes within the framework of national legislation, educational best practice, and the Trust’s core values and strategic vision. Your leadership will be central to driving continuous improvement, fostering a culture of high expectations, and ensuring that every student is supported to achieve their full potential.

We are looking for an outstanding individual who can articulate a compelling vision for the academy and inspire staff, students, and the wider community to work together in achieving it. You will be a strategic thinker and a confident decision-maker, with a proven track record of successful leadership in education. Your commitment to inclusion, equity, and excellence will be evident in everything you do, and you will be passionate about creating life-changing opportunities for young people in Leeds.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the highest standards of professional conduct and leadership, meeting the four ‘Excellence As Standard’ domains outlined in the National Standards of Excellence for Headteachers. You will be supported by a strong and collaborative Trust network, with access to high-quality professional development and the opportunity to contribute to system-wide improvement across our family of academies.

If you are ready to lead with integrity, ambition, and purpose—and to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people—we would be delighted to hear from you.

Closing Date:                        Monday 30th June 2025, 9am

To apply, please visit Principal - Leeds East Academy, Leeds - Tes Jobs

For more information about this role, or to discuss this role further please contact wrat-hr@whiteroseacademies.org.

White Rose Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its students and expects all staff and volunteers to share the commitment. Appointments will be subject to Safer Recruitment Procedures and an enhanced DBS check.

Please note this role will involve contact with children and you will be engaging in regulated activity. It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

We promote diversity and want a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds.  Applications are welcome from all, irrespective of sex, sexuality, race, religion, marital status, age or disability.