Head of IT

Overview

Lead Digital Strategy Across a Growing Catholic Trust
Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership (KCSP) is seeking an experienced and forward thinking Head of IT to provide strategic and operational leadership for IT, digital infrastructure, and cyber security across our Trust of 32 Catholic schools (and growing).

This is a senior leadership role with real influence, collaborating closely with the Executive Team, Headteachers, and Business Managers to shape a secure, modern, and resilient digital environment that supports teaching, learning and operational excellence.

Salary

£55,764 - £62,235 (inclusive of September 2026 pay award)

Location

KCSP
Barham Court
Teston
Kent
ME18 5BZ

Job Description & Role Information

The Role

As Head of IT, you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of a Trust‑wide IT and digital strategy, aligned to school improvement and future growth.
• Drive standardisation and transformation of systems, infrastructure, and support models across multiple sites.
• Provide expert leadership on cyber security, safeguarding systems, GDPR and risk management.
• Improve the consistency, quality, and responsiveness of IT services for staff and pupils.
• Ensure value for money, strong financial oversight, and effective supplier management.
• Build and lead high‑performing IT teams and foster collaboration across the Trust.
• Report clearly and confidently to the Executive Team and Board

You will play a key role in supporting our school rebuilding programme and preparing the Trust for planned growth to 41 schools.

About You

You will be a credible senior IT leader with:

• Proven experience leading IT services in a complex, multi‑site organisation
• A strong track record of standardising systems and delivering digital transformation at scale.
• Deep understanding of cyber security, compliance, and risk
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate technical complexity into clear strategic advice.
• A values‑led approach and sympathy with the Catholic mission of the Trust.

Experience in education or the public sector is welcome, but not essential.

Why Join KCSP?

• The opportunity to shape digital strategy across a large and growing Trust.
• A role with genuine strategic influence and Board‑level engagement
• A supportive, mission‑driven organisation rooted in collaboration and service, and dedicated to providing continuous professional development for all colleagues.
• Competitive salary and long‑term professional opportunity.

• • CES Application Form - Head of IT download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineCES Application Form - Head of IT
  • CES Application Form Notes for Applicants download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineCES Application Form Notes for Applicants
  • CES Consent to Obtain References Form download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineCES Consent to Obtain References Form
  • CES Recruitment Monitoring Form download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineCES Recruitment Monitoring Form
  • CES Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 - Disclosure Form download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineCES Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 - Disclosure Form
  • Head of IT Job Description and Person Specification download_for_offline
    download_for_offlineHead of IT Job Description and Person Specification

Application deadline and how to apply

Applications

You can view and download the full Job Description and Person Specification for this role, together with the application form and associated documents, in the section above. 

We look forward to welcoming your application!

• Closing date for applications: 9am on Monday 18 May 2026
• Interviews: To be held during the weeks commencing Monday 18 May and Monday 01 June 2026
• Start date: Tuesday 01 September 2026

Please send your letter of application and related application documents directly to Chris Knell, Chief Financial Officer c/o: office@kcsp.org.uk Your supporting statement should be limited to 2,000 words max. and should outline why you feel you are suited to this role, what you believe you can bring to the academy and detail your experience to date, skill set and qualifications.

Equal Opportunities

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. Our Trust and our schools are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment where all individuals are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. We actively promote equality across all areas of employment and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, and we are dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of our staff—including a strong focus on mental health, family-friendly policies, and inclusive practices that reflect the richness of our school communities.

Together, we strive to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the children and families we serve.

Job reference:HITKCSP01