About this role
Post Reference: 2799
Academy: Leeds East Academy
Job Title: Principal
Grade: Leadership 34 to 38 (£116,455 to £128,446)
Hours: Full time
Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer
Leeds East Academy is a thriving 11-16 school committed to transforming the lives of young people through education. Rooted in values of resilience, integrity, trust, and ambition, the academy fosters an inclusive and supportive environment where every student is encouraged to excel, regardless of their background. As part of the White Rose Academies Trust, the school is dedicated to delivering a world-class education, continuously evolving to meet the needs of its students and embracing innovative approaches to learning.
Recognised by Ofsted in 2024 for its strong leadership, positive student behaviour, and personal development opportunities, Leeds East Academy has undergone remarkable improvement in recent years. The school is driven by the belief that every child can achieve exceptional outcomes. More than just a place of learning, the academy nurtures and inspires students, equipping them with the skills and character to succeed in life and contribute positively to society.
We are committed to investing in our staff and supporting their continuous professional growth. As part of our Trust, colleagues have access to a range of nationally recognised qualifications from Level 3 to Level 6, fully funded by the organisation. We provide protected time during the working week to enable staff to complete these qualifications successfully, ensuring professional development is both achievable and meaningful. This commitment reflects our belief in nurturing talent and supporting career progression across all roles within the Trust.
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.
Leeds East Academy, part of the White Rose Academies Trust, is seeking an exceptional Principal to lead the academy at a pivotal moment in its journey. This is a compelling opportunity for a values‑driven leader to build on recent progress and shape the future of a vibrant, diverse secondary school serving the East Leeds community.
Following a period of purposeful renewal, the academy now benefits from a calm, focused and aspirational culture underpinned by strong relationships, clear systems and high expectations. Inclusion, equity and ambition sit at the heart of everything we do, guided by our belief that Everyone Exceptional.
As Principal, you will provide inspiring strategic and operational leadership, with accountability for educational performance, pastoral outcomes and the day‑to‑day life of the academy. Working closely with the CEO, Trust executive team and Local Accountability Board, you will:
Lead a clear, inclusive vision that promotes social mobility and high aspiration Secure consistently strong teaching, learning and curriculum quality Champion inclusive practice, ensuring all pupils, particularly those with SEND or disadvantage, thrive Develop leadership capacity and foster a culture of professional learning and wellbeing Build strong partnerships with families, communities and external agencies
We are looking for an experienced and credible school leader with a strong moral purpose, a proven track record of improvement and the ability to inspire confidence across diverse stakeholders. This role will suit a serving Principal or an ambitious senior leader ready for headship within a supportive, values‑led Trust.
As part of White Rose Academies Trust, you will join a collaborative network of leaders, benefit from high‑quality professional development and be supported to lead with confidence and impact.
White Rose Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Part of White Rose Academies Trust - Leeds East Academy is accelerating on a thrilling journey, which will ultimately see the school, its staff and its students, secure continued strides for the school and the community that it serves.
The trust currently employs over 500 members of staff and is responsible for educating and developing almost 4,000 students between the ages of 3 to 16. The trust consists of three secondary schools - Leeds City Academy, Leeds East Academy and Leeds West Academy, and also welcomed its first primary school Alder Tree Primary Academy on 1st December 2020.
We believe the trust is a highly desirable place of work for an ambitious professional, who will be joining one of the most supportive and talented teams in the country.
Closing Date: Tuesday 9th June 2026
If you would like to arrange a visit to the academy, please contact us on 0113 273 1964.
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.