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- Tasks: Lead a vibrant prep school, inspiring excellence in teaching and nurturing student growth.
- Company: Alleyn’s Oakfield, part of a prestigious educational group with over 400 years of excellence.
- Benefits: Beautiful surroundings, excellent transport links, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a flourishing school and make a real impact on young lives.
- Qualifications: Dynamic leadership skills and a passion for education.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment focused on growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The Alleyn’s Schools Group is delighted to invite applications for the next Head of Alleyn’s Oakfield, a joyful, warm and ambitious prep school for children aged 4–11 in the heart of leafy West Dulwich. In August 2025, Oakfield Prep formally became Alleyn’s Oakfield, joining a family of schools with more than 400 years of educational excellence, a distinctive values‑led culture, and a shared commitment to inspiring every pupil and member of staff to be “all they can be.” This is a pivotal and exciting moment for the school. With recent and future investment in buildings and facilities, a vibrant curriculum, a thriving co‑curricular programme and a nurturing, community‑centred ethos, Alleyn’s Oakfield is exceptionally well‑placed for continued growth and strategic development within the wider Alleyn’s group.
Responsibilities and leadership expectations
We are seeking a dynamic, inspiring leader who brings clarity of vision, authenticity and energy. The next Head will lead the strategic development and day‑to‑day operations of the school, and champion excellence in teaching, learning and pastoral care, modelling Alleyn’s ROCCK values and fostering a culture in which children feel known, supported, stretched and celebrated. They will provide clear, ambitious leadership aligned with the overarching aims of the Alleyn’s School Group, working closely with senior colleagues to enhance alignment, maintain high standards and ensure that Alleyn’s Oakfield thrives within a rapidly evolving educational landscape. They will be a visible, trusted and emotionally intelligent presence, able to communicate with warmth while cultivating a collaborative, joyful environment for staff and pupils alike. This is a rare opportunity to lead a flourishing, ambitious school full of potential. With beautiful surroundings, excellent transport links into central London and the strength and shared purpose of the wider Alleyn’s group, Alleyn’s Oakfield offers an exceptional platform for an inspiring leader to shape a school that is both deeply rooted and confidently future‑facing.
How to apply
To apply, please submit a completed application form, CV and a covering letter by 9.00am GMT Monday 2 March online at: https://www.odgers.com/95362, where you can also download the candidate brief.
Contact for initial discussion
For an initial discussion, please contact: Ruth Lewis: +44 (0) 20 7529 3959 ruth.lewis@odgers.com
Alleyn’s Oakfield is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Head employer: Alleyn's Oakfield
Contact Detail:
Alleyn's Oakfield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know Alleyn’s Oakfield. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's values and ethos. Show us how your vision aligns with Alleyn’s ROCCK values. We want to see your passion for creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! We love hearing about your past experiences and how they’ve shaped your leadership style. Share specific examples of how you've fostered collaboration and joy in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity to connect.
We think you need these skills to ace Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what Alleyn’s Oakfield is all about. Dive into our values and culture, and think about how your vision aligns with ours. This will help you craft an application that truly resonates with us.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your personality and leadership style while addressing the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Show us how you can bring clarity of vision and energy to our school.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your CV, focus on experiences that showcase your ability to lead and inspire. We want to see examples of how you've championed excellence in teaching and learning, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website by the deadline. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Alleyn’s Oakfield!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alleyn's Oakfield
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Alleyn’s ROCCK values. Think about how these values resonate with your own leadership style and experiences. Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve embodied similar values in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Vision
As a candidate for Head, it’s crucial to articulate your vision for the school. Prepare to discuss your strategic ideas for enhancing teaching, learning, and pastoral care. Think about how you can align your vision with the school's goals and demonstrate your commitment to fostering a nurturing environment.
✨Engage with the Community
Alleyn’s Oakfield prides itself on its community-centred ethos. Be prepared to talk about how you would engage with staff, pupils, and parents. Share any past experiences where you successfully built relationships within a school community, highlighting your emotional intelligence and collaborative approach.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the school’s future, challenges, and opportunities. This not only shows your genuine interest but also gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you. Think about what you need to know to lead effectively in this role.
