Headteacher

Headteacher - Rochdale Islamic Academy for Girls

Rochdale Islamic Academy for Girls (RIAG), a small independent school in Rochdale, is seeking an outstanding, inspiring and values‑driven Headteacher to lead our thriving Islamic secondary school. This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic and motivated leader with a strong track record in UK school leadership, school improvement, safeguarding, compliance and raising academic standards.

We are looking for a leader who is passionate about developing confident, articulate young Muslim girls who excel academically, spiritually and personally. The ideal candidate will demonstrate high expectations, integrity, and the ability to strengthen RIAG’s ethos, behaviour systems and curriculum.

The Headteacher will provide strategic leadership and will be responsible for:

• Driving whole‑school improvement and academic excellence
• Strengthening compliance with the Independent School Standards
• Leading teaching, learning and curriculum development
• Ensuring robust safeguarding systems in line with KCSIE
• Building a motivated and high‑performing staff team
• Developing pupil behaviour, wellbeing and Islamic character
• Working closely with governors, parents and external partners
• Promoting Islamic values throughout school life

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the UK
• Strong senior leadership experience with measurable impact from the UK
• A solid understanding of the needs of Muslim girls in education
• Experience leading teaching, learning and raising standards
• Strong safeguarding knowledge and experience (DSL level or willing to train)
• Excellent communication, decision‑making and organisational skills
• Ability to lead with integrity, professionalism and Islamic values
• A practising Muslim committed to the ethos of the school
• Experience in Islamic or girls’ secondary schools
• Understanding of the new Ofsted Framework
• Knowledge and experience of consistently meeting the Independent School Standards

• NPQH or other leadership qualifications
• Experience with curriculum development
• Knowledge of Qur’an, Tajweed or Islamic Studies
• Understanding of SEND, EAL and wider pastoral needs

Candidates interested should apply by submitting a copy of their CV and a cover letter in the first instance. All suitable candidates will be required to complete an application form prior to shortlisting.

Rochdale Islamic Academy for Girls is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check for Regulated Activity.

The successful candidate will undergo:

• Enhanced DBS check
• Identity and reference checks
• Full pre‑employment safeguarding vetting in line with KCSIE