Reference: Permanent
Students on Roll 383 as at September 2025.
Governors and Trustees wish to appoint a new and dedicated Headteacher who will inspire our community and lead our fantastic school.
Forest Academy is a high-achieving academy with a headcount of over 380 students and has a well-established reputation in the county of Suffolk and in the community, situated in the town of Brandon, 6-7 miles north-east of Thetford.
Forest Academy is a school where learning is joyful, memories are made, and children are prepared for life.
Ofsted-2021: Good. Our latest inspection was carried out on 10 /11 March – We await the final report.
You will:
have leadership experience and the ability to challenge, inspire, and motivate colleagues and our students
be an excellent communicator and able to work successfully with both internal and external stakeholders
have high standards and expectations of self and others and be able to lead by example
be imaginative, innovative, resourceful and a decisive leader
be able to build and maintain trusting relationships with the key stakeholders including staff, parents, and students
share our passion for education, and can demonstrate a clear strategic vision
be able to demonstrate how you have improved the quality of education in your current setting
have a clear vision, highest integrity, and the commitment to help every student achieve their potential, not only academically or socially, but as young citizens who value and contribute to our community.
We will offer you:
enthusiastic and ambitions students who are keen to learn with proven high achievement and attainment
a strong reputation locally and in the wider community
a talented staff team that welcome new challenges and are committed to supporting colleagues and students
a very wide range of extra-curricular activities
opportunities to work in collaboration with partner schools where available
a supportive community, and Local Governing Body
a comprehensive induction programme
quality continuous professional development for Headteachers
most importantly, a once in a lifetime opportunity to make your mark on the education of our students over many years to come.
To find out more
Please read the (word)
For an informal discussion, to arrange a visit to the academy or to find out more about the role, please email Naimi White on enquiries@forestacademy.co.ukor call 01842 810309.
For further information, please visit our website
How to apply
Please complete the Application Form (word)
Alternatively, application packs are available on our website or by emailing naimiwhite@forestacademy.co.uk or by calling 01842 810309.
Completed applications should be emailed to Naimi White on naimiwhite@forestacademy.co.uk or returned by post to David Anderson, Chair of Governors, Forest Academy, Bury Road, Brandon, Suffolk IP27 0FP.
Closing date: 1 pm, 15 April 2026.
Shortlisting date: 17 April 2026.
Final interview date: week ending 24 April 2026.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We care deeply about inclusive working practices and diverse teams, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check will be required, and the post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and a comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on successful applicants including an enhanced disclosure check.

Reimagine the possibilities.
As one of the largest employers in Suffolk, we have a huge variety of exciting careers to offer people as keen to make a positive impact on the world around them as we are.
As a modern, flexible, and effective council, we’re driven to make a difference to the environment, the communities we serve, and the careers of our people. We explore innovative ways to encourage, respect, and enable everyone to be the best they can be.
By creating meaningful connections with our people and our partner organisations, we’ve built a culture of mutual collaboration, trust, and respect where everyone is supported to be their authentic selves.
We aim to inspire and empower. To improve and evolve. To develop and innovate. To take pride and ownership of the world around us and ensure that we leave a positive and lasting legacy. That’s why it’s time to reimagine a career with the council and take a fresh look at what we can offer you.