The Birkenhead High School Academy is one of two state academies run by the GDST.  This school is one of the top schools in the Wirral.  Although on the face of it, such a context should be considered attractive, many individuals are looking for opportunities to make an impact and this is a problem for high performing schools and academies.    

Pentir undertook a search for candidates alongside a national advertisement.  We worked with the CEO of GDST and their Director of Innovation and Learning, attending and advising at formal longlisting and shortlisting meetings.  At the same time there was a need to keep the local Chair of Governors and the school stakeholders informed whilst respecting the importance of confidentiality for candidates.  Pentir carried out preliminary interviews and a shortlist of five candidates was produced. 

We advised on, attended and supported the assessment centre which involved a range of stakeholders including staff and students.  We then attended and advised at the final interview. 

The organisation was delighted with the quality of the appointment and our work.  As a result of this, Pentir were asked to support the appointment of the new Principal at Norwich High School for Girls.