Principal
Principal Vacancy
This is an exciting time to join a unique Trust with a focus on improving outcomes for children at risk of exclusion, within our academy we support a range of children from reception all through to post 16, many of our children are dual rolled with their host school, reducing permanent exclusions across the city.Stephenson MK Trust (SMKT), on behalf of Bridge all through Academy, is seeking an inspiring, compassionate, and visionary Principal to lead our alternative provision academy while collaborating across the Trust, including our SEMH special school Academy.
Candidates with experience in both SEMH and AP are particularly welcome.
As part of our small but dynamic Trust, you will have the opportunity to contribute across our academies and be an integral member of our wider Trust Senior Leadership Team (SLT). We are a strong, community-focused Trust, believing that collaboration allows us to achieve more for children.By sharing expertise across SMKT, we continually enhance the support and opportunities available to our students.
The Trust is deeply committed to inclusivity and to maximising every student’s potential. Stephenson Academy values its reputation as a welcoming and supportive environment, placing equal importance on pastoral care and personalised academic learning.
We are seeking a Principal who:
- Demonstrates unwavering commitment to student progress.
- Employs innovative and creative approaches to teaching and learning.
- Engages in reflective practice to consistently enhance outcomes for pupils.
- Possesses ambition for, and dedication to, the most vulnerable young people.
- Is confident in leading an alternative provision setting and flexible in contributing to Trust-wide initiatives, including supporting the SEMH Academy where required.
This role ensures that all students within the Trust have access to outstanding leadership and the opportunity to develop their talents, equipping them to contribute positively to the world beyond our care. We are determined to appoint an exceptional candidate because all children deserve the very best leaders and teachers.
About Bridge Academy All-Through Alternative Provision
Bridge Academy is a successful Alternative Provision across two sites—Coffee Hall and Manor Road in Bletchley—supporting children and young people aged 5 to 19. The Academy was judged Good by Ofsted in June 2024.
In September 2025, Bridge Academy amalgamated with Milton Keynes Primary PRU (MKPPRU), based at the Manor Road site, expanding our pathways of support.
Admissions are managed through the MK Inclusion Partnership group and emergency placement panels, coordinated by the Chief Executive Officer of SMKT and supported by local Headteachers and senior leaders. This collaborative approach significantly reduces permanent exclusions and enables timely reintegration into mainstream education.Bridge Academy has changed the lives of many young people through early intervention, dual-rolled provision, and strong partnership work with schools.
We primarily serve Milton Keynes, with places offered to neighbouring authorities when available.
In return, our Trust offers:
- An exceptional opportunity to lead a site within a successful and growing Alternative Provision
- The chance to work with experienced, supportive executive leaders
- Strong professional development and career progression pathways
- A values-driven, inclusive organisation with a dedicated and skilled staff team
We warmly welcome visits to Bridge Academy All-Through Alternative Provision and look forward to receiving your application.
Kathie Hughes
CEO, Stephenson (MK) Trust
The Recruitment Process:
Indicative Timeline- Advert Closing Date: Midnight on 31st May 2026
- Shortlisting: week commencing 1st June
- Interview Dates: week commencing 8th June
Further Information
If you would like to visit the school and/or require any further information please contact our HR Department via email on hr@stephensonacademy.org.uk The CEO would welcome a professional conversation with any interested candidates.
Stephenson MK Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, satisfactory references, and other pre-employment checks in line with statutory guidance, including KCSIE.We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.