Our Vacancies

Head of Preparatory School

Ashley Manor Preparatory School offers something special – a school where childhood is valued, learning extends beyond the classroom, and every child’s journey is carefully shaped from their very first steps.

We are seeking a confident and ambitious leader to take on the role of Head of Prep, leading the day-to-day life of the school and playing a central role in its continued growth and development.

Working in partnership with the Principal, who provides strategic oversight, you will lead with clarity, warmth and purpose – ensuring that every child, family and member of staff experiences the very best of Ashley Manor.

About Ashley Manor Preparatory School

Set within 45 acres of parkland on the edge of Cheltenham, Ashley Manor provides an exceptional education for children aged 9 months to 11 years.

From the Manor House Nursery (open 50 weeks of the year) through to the Prep School, children benefit from a seamless and supportive journey, shaped by small class sizes, a broad curriculum and extensive outdoor learning opportunities.

Life at Ashley Manor extends well beyond the classroom. Whether through Forest School, sport or exploration across our grounds, pupils develop confidence, independence and curiosity in a setting that encourages them to thrive.

Academically, the school offers clear and successful pathways. Pupils are well prepared for 11+ entry, with many progressing to local grammar schools, while others move on to leading independent senior schools, including our sister school, St Edward’s School. Each child is supported to follow the path that best suits their strengths and ambitions.

With a strong community, committed staff team and clear sense of purpose, Ashley Manor is a school with both stability and exciting potential.

About the Role

Contract Type: Full-time, permanent

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience

Start Date: September 2026, or later by arrangement for the right candidate

Closing Date: 19th April 2026

As Head of Prep, you will be the visible, day-to-day leader of Ashley Manor, with responsibility for standards, staff, pupils and the overall school experience.

You will lead across Nursery, Early Years and Prep, ensuring a consistent, high-quality experience for all pupils.

Working closely with the Principal, you will contribute to the wider strategic direction of the school while taking ownership of its daily delivery, translating vision into practice.

This is a role that requires both hands-on leadership and strategic awareness, with the opportunity to shape culture, strengthen outcomes and support continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the day-to-day running of the school across Nursery, Early Years and Prep.
  • Drive high standards in teaching, learning and pupil outcomes, including preparation for the 11+.
  • Create a positive, purposeful environment where children feel known, supported and inspired.
  • Lead, develop and support staff, building a strong and collaborative professional culture.
  • Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding, wellbeing and pastoral care.
  • Oversee a broad, engaging and balanced curriculum, enriched by outdoor learning.
  • Build strong relationships with parents and the wider school community.
  • Work with the Principal to support pupil recruitment, retention and school growth.
  • Ensure effective operational and financial management.

About You

We are looking for a leader who is:

  • An experienced senior leader ready to lead with confidence and clarity.
  • Passionate about early years and preparatory education.
  • Committed to high standards and continuous improvement.
  • A strong communicator who builds trust with staff, pupils and families.
  • Able to balance strategic thinking with visible, day-to-day leadership.
  • Fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Why Join Ashley Manor?

This is an opportunity to lead a school that offers both space to think and room to grow, for its pupils and its staff.

We offer:

  • Competitive remuneration package
  • Company pension scheme
  • Company sick pay
  • Life assurance (3× annual salary)
  • Free lunch provided
  • Refer-a-friend scheme with financial reward
  • Wellbeing and wellness programme
  • Ongoing training and professional development
  • A collaborative, supportive and forward-thinking environment

To find out more about our role, please read our Head of Prep Candidate Pack.

If you are a thoughtful and ambitious leader ready to shape the future of a thriving preparatory school, we would welcome your application.

How to Apply

To apply for the role, please fill out our Application Form and return this to recruitment@alphaschools.co.uk along with your CV.

Apply today and begin your leadership journey with Ashley Manor Preparatory School.

Ashley Manor Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants for ALL jobs will undergo appropriate child-protection screening including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to enhanced level, costs are covered by the company. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.