City of London School - Head of Lower School

Summary

We are currently seeking to fill the position of Head of Lower School at City of London School.

Detail

The Head of Lower School is a significant senior leadership role within City of London School, responsible for the academic progress, pastoral care and wider experience of pupils in the Lower School: Old Grammar, First Form, Second Form and Third Form, corresponding to Years 6 to 9.

The Head of Lower School will be a member of the Senior Management Team and will play an important part in shaping the day-to-day life and strategic direction of the School. They will be a collaborative colleague, a committed practitioner and a visible presence in the life of the Lower School, fully supportive of the Schools vision and values.

The successful candidate will have oversight of all elements of educational provision for pupils in the Lower School and will take responsibility for their welfare, behaviour, attendance, punctuality, wellbeing and learning. They will work closely with colleagues to ensure that pupils are known, supported and challenged, and that the transition into and through the early years of the School is carefully managed.

The Head of Lower School will actively promote the Schools values of being kind, aware and ready, with particular emphasis on respect for others, diversity, community and charitable engagement. They will also be a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for matters relating to pupils in these year groups and will play a key role in ensuring that safeguarding, pastoral care and academic support are closely aligned.

The post-holder will line manage the Heads of Old Grammar, First Form, Second Form and Third Form, supporting them in their work with pupils, parents and colleagues. They will contribute to discussions about school policy, planning and development, bringing to the role a strong understanding of current educational issues, including those affecting the independent sector.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, thoughtful and energetic school leader to help shape the experience of pupils at a formative stage of their education, and to make a substantial contribution to the wider leadership of City of London School.

It is a top priority for the School that we both attract and retain a staff body that is not only excellent, but also reflects the London community within which we live, and our diverse pupil body. As such, it is of paramount importance to the School that we acknowledge our current imbalance and seek to rectify this. We are therefore particularly keen to encourage applications from candidates who have African Caribbean, Asian or other Minority Ethnic or mixed heritage. All appointments are merit-based, following a fair, transparent recruitment process. In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, however, the School may employ positive action where diverse candidates demonstrate the ability to perform the role equally well.

City of London School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Further information about the School and a copy of the most recent ISI Inspection report are available on the school website.

Closing date: 9am 15 June 2026.

Interviews will be held on: First Round - 23 June 2026

Second Round - 29 June 2026