Principal – City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, Potteries Educational Trust
Location: Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
The City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College is an Ofsted graded ‘Good’ Academy on the cusp of being ‘Exceptional’. With over 60 courses and an outstanding curriculum, the college prepares almost 2,000 students to achieve more, supported by a dedicated teaching staff and state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
About the role
The Principal is the college’s strategic leader, shaping its vision, culture and long‑term direction. Working closely with the CEO, Local Governing Body and wider academy community, the Principal will:
- Define and champion the college’s values, ensuring they are lived out in every aspect of provision
- Inspire, empower and motivate the 180 staff and students to achieve exceptional outcomes
- Drive high‑quality teaching, curriculum innovation and rigorous assessment, ensuring all learners are supported and challenged to fulfil their potential
- Cultivate a culture built on respect, inclusion and high expectations
- Maintain strong quality assurance, effective communication and evidence‑informed decision‑making to keep the college on a clear trajectory towards outstanding performance
- Build partnerships with local schools, employers, community organisations and regional stakeholders, representing the college and Trust with credibility and ambition
- Shape futures, develop staff talent and enhance life chances for every learner, regardless of background
Who we are looking for
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- A proven track record as an exceptional, values‑driven leader who inspires excellence and secures outstanding outcomes for every learner
- Strong academic foundation and teaching experience, plus substantial senior leadership experience within a post‑16 or relevant educational setting
- Strategic insight combined with compassionate, inspirational leadership; skilled in analysing data, shaping curriculum and using evidence to support complex decision‑making
- Excellent communication skills and a history of building productive relationships with governors, staff, students, families and external partners
- Professionalism, diplomacy and transparency, upholding the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality and public accountability
- Financial acumen and the ability to manage 16–19 funding, budgets, recruitment and risk with rigour while maintaining high expectations under pressure
- A commitment to equality, safeguarding and the welfare of all students and staff, championing the transformative power of education
Closing date
Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 5th May 2026Candidates informed of outcome: Wednesday 13th May 2026
Contact
Please contact our advising consultants at Peridot Partners for further information or a confidential discussion.
Heather McLachlanChief Executive OfficerPotteries Educational Trust
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