Ratcliffe College

Ratcliffe College

About the Role Ratcliffe College is seeking an exceptional and visionary leader for the role of Assistant Head (Boarding and Mission). This is a rare opportunity to lead within a community where Boarding and Catholic Life and Mission are not simply priorities, but are lived with authenticity, joy and conviction at every level of College life. Inspection evidence confirms that Ratcliffe is an outstanding school by every measure, where young people are known, valued and cared for, and grow into confident, compassionate citizens who understand their responsibility to serve others and contribute to the common good. As a thriving school with a waiting list for Year 7 entry, Ratcliffe is unique in the UK as an all-through, co-educational, Catholic Rosminian school. The Assistant Head (Boarding and Mission) will embody the late Pope Francis's call for pastoral accompaniment. This is a role for a leader who is energised by building something, not simply maintaining it, benefiting from exceptional foundations laid by previous incumbents. This is a non-teaching role for a practising Roman Catholic, working throughout the calendar year in this dual leadership position combining strategic boarding development with spiritual mission leadership. Key Responsibilities Boarding Leadership: Provide strategic leadership for the development and growth of boarding across all year groups Drive initiatives to increase boarding occupancy and retention rates through innovative recruitment strategies Ensure the quality of the lived boarding experience remains sector-leading through continuous improvement initiatives Oversee the College's immersion and summer programmes, creating pathways that strengthen international recruitment Develop and implement boarding policies that reflect contemporary best practices while maintaining traditional values Monitor and evaluate boarding provision to ensure exceptional pastoral care and academic support Lead boarding staff development and training programmes Collaborate with admissions teams to develop targeted boarding recruitment campaigns Catholic Life and Mission Leadership: Serve as Senior Lay Chaplain, leading the Catholic Life and Mission of the College from Nursery through Sixth Form Plan, coordinate and lead prayer, liturgy and worship across the school community Support faith formation programmes for students, staff and families Act as a visible witness to the Catholic ethos, embedding Gospel values in daily school life Develop and deliver retreat programmes, spiritual formation activities and sacramental preparation Foster partnerships with local parishes and Catholic communities Provide pastoral support and spiritual guidance to students and staff Work collaboratively with the Rosminian community to maintain authentic Catholic identity Strategic Development: Contribute to senior leadership team decision-making and whole-school strategic planning Develop innovative programmes that integrate boarding excellence with mission-driven education Build strong relationships with current and prospective families, demonstrating the unique value proposition Represent the College at external events, conferences and networking opportunities Lead cross-curricular initiatives that embed Catholic social teaching and values Requirements Essential Experience and Qualifications: Significant experience in boarding leadership as Housemaster/Housemistress or equivalent senior boarding role Demonstrated track record of innovation, recruitment or programme development in educational settings Strong understanding of contemporary boarding practices and regulatory requirements Experience in pastoral leadership and student welfare management Proven ability to work with diverse stakeholder groups including students, parents, staff and external partners Faith and Mission Requirements: Baptised, practising Roman Catholic, committed to leading and witnessing faith in a school community Deep understanding of Catholic educational philosophy and tradition Experience in liturgical planning, prayer leadership or chaplaincy work Ability to articulate and embody Catholic values in educational leadership Commitment to supporting the faith journey of young people and families Leadership and Personal Qualities: Visible, relational leader with exceptional interpersonal skills Ability to build trust and rapport with pupils, parents and staff across all age ranges Strategic thinker with energy, creativity and ambitious vision for growth Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Strong organisational and project management capabilities Resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced educational environment Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people Benefits and Compensation This exceptional opportunity offers: Competitive base salary commensurate with experience and qualifications Generous performance-related bonus structure of up to approximately 30% of base salary, linked to: Boarding occupancy and growth metrics Student retention achievements Summer school and immersion programme success Suitable accommodation provided according to the needs of the