Assistant Principal Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK Salary: L09 - L16 £63,070 -£75,049 Contract Type: Permanent Education Phases: Secondary; Job Roles: Other Leadership; Working Patterns: Full-Time; Application Deadline: Wednesday, 21st October 2026 Interview Date: Friday 23rd October 2026 Expected Working Start Date: January 2027 Visa Sponsorship Available: No Is a Shared Job: No About us Darwen Vale High School is more than its recent Ofsted recognition it is a community built on shared vision and ambition. Guided by the Aldridge principle of “no child left behind”, DVHS strives to be a beacon of excellence in Darwen. “We champion a safe, inclusive culture of high aspirations and achievement, where everyone is inspired to excel and take pride in all they do. By promoting responsibility, independent thinking and respect for diversity, we prepare learners to thrive as outstanding members of our community.” Our Vale Values: * We Aim High * We Work Hard * We Care These values shape everything we do, ensuring every student receives an excellent education and is ready for the wider world. About the Role: Are you an ambitious, driven and inspirational leader ready to make a real difference to students’ lives? We are seeking an exceptional Assistant Principal to join our leadership team and play a pivotal role in driving rapid school improvement, raising standards and ensuring that every student achieves at least expected progress. Working closely with the Principal and Vice Principal, you will help shape and deliver our improvement priorities, strengthen teaching and learning, and build a culture of high expectations, ambition and accountability for all. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate educational leader who is ready to influence whole-school strategy, empower colleagues and secure better outcomes for every student. We want a leader who combines strategic thinking with the drive to make things happen. You will bring a relentless focus on student achievement, the ability to motivate others and the determination to turn ambition into measurable impact. You will be someone who: * Has a proven commitment to improving student outcomes. * Sets high expectations for students and staff. * Leads with integrity, energy and purpose. * Uses evidence-informed approaches to drive sustainable improvement. * Shares our belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Key Benefits of working for Aldridge Education Join the Aldridge Education Family! Looking for a fulfilling career with great perks? Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you: * Aldridge Benefits Scheme – Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you! * Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits. * Employee Assistance Programme – Your well-being matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it. * Flexible Working Opportunities – Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you. * Free On-Site Parking – No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered. * Pension Schemes – Secure your future with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme. * Refer a Friend Scheme – Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board! To Apply If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Aldridge Education, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application