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- Tasks: Lead academic excellence and innovation at a prestigious independent school.
- Company: Benenden School, renowned for its pioneering approach to girls' education.
- Benefits: Full-time role with accommodation provided and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and inspire the next generation of leaders.
- Qualifications: Proven academic leadership experience and a passion for innovative teaching.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Benenden School seeks an outstanding academic leader to join its Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Head Academic. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the next chapter of academic excellence and innovation at one of the UK's leading independent schools. Set within 250 acres of beautiful Kent parkland, Benenden has been inspiring future thinkers and leaders for over 100 years. With 550 students aged 11-18, the School is renowned for its pioneering approach to girls' education and its ambitious Complete Education model, recently recognised as a significant strength. Blending examined courses, non-examined electives, co-curricular breadth, and professional skills development, the curriculum is deliberately designed to develop adaptable, resilient and forward-thinking learners, equipped for a rapidly changing digital and global landscape.
Responsibilities
- Join the Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Head Academic and play a central role in sustaining and strengthening the School's academic provision.
- Provide oversight of curriculum, teaching and learning, and academic standards across the whole school.
- Collaborate with the Headmistress, fellow Deputies and governors to shape and deliver the academic vision of Benenden.
- Support staff development, promote intellectual curiosity and scholarship, and ensure pupils are well prepared for future study and life beyond school.
- Lead and contribute to strategic initiatives related to academic leadership, curriculum development, assessment strategy and technological innovation.
Qualifications and Experience
- Strong track record in academic leadership and experience of leading successful academic teams, curriculum development, and assessment strategy.
- Experience of technological innovation in education and a commitment to high standards and inclusive practices.
- Ability to inspire both staff and students with strategic insight, intellectual curiosity, and collaborative leadership.
- Willingness to contribute to a full-time, year-round role; accommodation is provided to support leadership responsibilities.
Additional Information
- Grade and terms: full-time, year-round post. Accommodation is provided to support the leadership responsibilities associated with the role.
- Applications: For further information and to apply, please click the apply button.
- Submission deadline: Covering letters and CVs should be sent by 9.00 am GMT on Friday 6 March 2026 to Freddie Dennis at Odgers.
- Safeguarding: Benenden School 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.
Deputy Head Academic employer: Benenden School
Contact Detail:
Benenden School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Academic
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have insights into Benenden School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s academic vision and recent initiatives. We want you to show how your experience aligns with their goals, so think about specific examples from your past that demonstrate your leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’ve got resources to help you shine during the application process, so make the most of them!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Academic
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your academic leadership experience and how it aligns with our vision at Benenden. We want to see your passion for education and how you can inspire both staff and students.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the Deputy Head Academic role. We’re looking for specific examples of your achievements in curriculum development and team leadership.
Showcase Your Technological Savvy: In today’s digital world, we value candidates who embrace technological innovation. Be sure to include any relevant experience you have with educational technology and how it has enhanced learning outcomes in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Benenden School
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Benenden School's ethos, values, and academic offerings. Familiarise yourself with their Complete Education model and how it shapes student learning. This knowledge will help you align your vision with theirs and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences and how you've successfully led academic teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of curriculum development and assessment strategies you've implemented. Highlight how your collaborative approach can inspire both staff and students at Benenden.
✨Emphasise Technological Innovation
Given the importance of technological innovation in education, come prepared with ideas on how you can integrate technology into the curriculum. Discuss any previous experiences where you've successfully used tech to enhance learning outcomes, showing that you're forward-thinking and adaptable.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the school's future academic initiatives and challenges. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school aligns with your educational philosophy and leadership style.
