At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to ensure top-notch education and care for students.
- Company: Join Mountfield Heath School, a supportive environment focused on student success.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, mental health support, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with complex needs and strong leadership abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 € per year.
Location: Mountfield Heath School, Robertsbridge, TN32 5FA
Hours: 37.5 per week | Monday to Friday
Salary: Up to £60,000.00 per annum (not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: January 2027
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
About the Role
Mountfield Heath School is seeking a dynamic and committed Deputy Headteacher to join our dedicated team in January 2027. An earlier start is desirable but will not disadvantage applicants. The Deputy Headteacher plays a central role in providing strong leadership and direction to ensure the highest standards of education, care and safeguarding across the school. Working in close partnership with the Headteacher and senior leadership team, the postholder supports the strategic development of the school while maintaining a strong operational focus. The role is integral to promoting positive outcomes for pupils through effective curriculum leadership, behaviour support, multi‑disciplinary working and robust staff management.
Key Responsibilities
- Comply fully with safeguarding procedures and principles as set out by the local safeguarding board, including participation in the assessment of referrals.
- Act as overall curriculum coordinator and manager across the school.
- Lead on the positive support of behaviour that may challenge, promoting consistent and effective practice.
- Work as a key member of the multi‑disciplinary team, collaborating with education, pastoral and clinical colleagues.
- Monitor pupil progress and targets to ensure each individual is able to achieve planned outcomes.
- Work with clinical and pastoral teams to oversee Behaviour Support Plans, providing advice, support and consultation, and ensuring plans are reviewed and updated regularly.
- Maintain effective links with external colleagues, both within the Outcomes First Group and with partner organisations.
Staff Leadership and Management
- Support the recruitment, training and ongoing professional development of staff.
- Undertake delegated management responsibilities, including supervision, annual appraisals, probation reviews, return‑to‑work meetings, and attendance management.
- Contribute to disciplinary, capability, grievance and other people management processes in accordance with company policy.
- Support the Headteacher through deputising and representing the school as required.
- Raise staff awareness of company policies, procedures and regulatory standards.
Essential Criteria
- Relevant experience of teaching children and young people with autistic spectrum conditions and/or behaviours that challenge.
- Degree qualification, QTS, and relevant sector‑specific qualifications.
- Experience of teaching children and young people with complex needs.
- Experience of managing and leading staff effectively.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- 'Your Wellbeing Matters' – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, hundreds of UK and international discounts, Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme, Critical illness cover, Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
Deputy Headteacher in Robertsbridge employer: Acorn Care and Education
Mountfield Heath School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth and wellbeing of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on safeguarding and educational excellence, employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, a flexible benefits platform, and a commitment to mental health support, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher in Robertsbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and connect with other professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Mountfield Heath School and understanding their values and mission. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like safeguarding and curriculum leadership.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your experience with children with complex needs and how you've successfully managed staff in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher in Robertsbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Deputy Headteacher. Use specific examples from your past that demonstrate your leadership skills and commitment to education.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through in your written application. We want to see your dedication to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting diverse needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Mountfield Heath School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Care and Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of a Deputy Headteacher. Familiarise yourself with safeguarding procedures, curriculum management, and behaviour support strategies. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but also prepared to take it on.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed staff in the past. Think about specific situations where your leadership made a positive impact on student outcomes or staff development. This will help demonstrate your capability to support the Headteacher effectively.
✨Engage with the School's Vision
Research Mountfield Heath School’s ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community and committed to their mission.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to multi-disciplinary working or how they support staff development. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.