Case Studies: Secondary

The challenge

Based in Waltham Forest close to the Olympic Park, Buxton is a newly formed all-through school, created as a result of merging Cann Hall Primary and Tom Hood Community Science College. The school has a truly comprehensive intake; 38% of Buxton School pupils are eligible for free school meals and 36% have special needs. The school has a diverse and inclusive community, which embraces a variety of cultures and ethnic groups. Over 57% of pupils speak English as an additional language and 86% are from ethnic minority groups. In total there are 30 ethnic groups represented.

Buxton School needed an executive headteacher with an understanding of all key stages capable of delivering sustained improvement . With the primary and secondary phases still housed on two adjoining sites, they required leader to expertly manage the integration of two predecessor school communities into one unified community while making the case for capital funding for a new building. They would also need to distinguish the school to attract pupils in an area where competition was rife. Given the need to recruit a successful, experienced and high-profile candidate, governors sought the support of an external consultancy. Following a rigorous tendering process, TES Prime was appointed to manage the assignment.  

How we helped

• The process started with an in-depth briefing meeting to explore leadership structures and establish an appropriate salary for the role.
• A photographer visited the school and the TES Prime creative team created a targeted, integrated marketing campaign including online and offline advertising in the TES, e-notification campaign and bespoke brochure that provided an insight into the school context and specific requirements of the role.
• TES Prime managed the campaign and led the governors through a robust assessment process. We guided governors through the shortlisting process, providing necessary templates and submitting a written report that clearly stated our recruitment director’s view. The team devised the recruitment process and a recruitment director attended final panel interviews to offer advise and guidance.
• Our campaign was highly successful, generating 41 expressions of interest and 21 applications, over double the national average.

The result

The governors were delighted to appoint a candidate with a proven track in raising standards and a demonstrable ability to inspire. The process was smooth, robust and fair. Despite a significant amount of Headteacher turnover in the local area, a first-time appointment was made.