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- Tasks: Lead academic management and inspire students, staff, and parents at Woldingham School.
- Company: Woldingham School, a top independent girls' school with a strong Catholic ethos.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunches, access to outstanding facilities, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Join a prestigious school and make a real impact on the next generation of leaders.
- Qualifications: Proven school leadership experience and strong emotional intelligence required.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Woldingham seeks an outstanding Senior Deputy Head to take up a new and important role, co-ordinating the development of all aspects of the educational provision of the School. Reporting to the Head, the Senior Deputy Head will lead the School’s academic management team and will also line manage a talented group of Deputy and Assistant Heads. They will deputise for the Head when required.
The successful candidate will combine a track record of highly successful school leadership experience with strong academic and emotional intelligence. They will have the ability to work collaboratively in such a way as to inspire students, staff and parents, as well as command their respect. They will be ready for the next step of their school leadership career and will most likely aspire to headship in due course.
We warmly invite applications from candidates who are ambitious to share their experience and enthusiasm for education, whatever their background. Woldingham is a Roman Catholic School, therefore it is desirable that the postholder is Roman Catholic or, at least, has a sympathy with the School’s Catholic ethos and values.
A competitive package, reflecting the seniority of the role and experience of the candidate is available. Close to London yet in an outstandingly beautiful rural setting, Woldingham is a happy and successful Catholic boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 and is firmly established as one of the top girls’ independent schools in the UK, outperforming many schools that are far more selective in their admissions process. Central to this achievement is Woldingham’s academic enrichment and extra-curricular programmes, pastoral support and caring community.
We are committed to an exciting future that is underpinned by fresh ideas, an innovative spirit and state-of-the-art facilities. Staff are welcome to use our range of outstanding facilities including the gym, squash and tennis courts and the swimming pool. Our Staffroom Committee organises regular social events, and individual members of staff have even organised yoga classes and reflexology on site. All staff receive free lunches and refreshments.
Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to appoint before the closing date. Potential applicants who would like to find out more about this exceptional opportunity are invited to contact one of the RSAcademics team working on this project for a confidential conversation: Jenny Funnell, Search Consultant: jennyfunnell@rsacademics.com; Martin Collier, Senior Advisor: martincollier@rsacademics.com.
The deadline for receipt of applications is Thursday 22 January 2026 at 10.00am (UK time). Applications should be made electronically to RSAcademics. To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now” and upload your documents according to the instructions provided.
You should submit the following (both in PDF format):
- a completed application form
- a covering letter addressed to Mrs Sue Baillie, Head. The letter should explain your reasons for applying.
If you have any questions about uploading your application documents, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations (Leadership Appointments) at: applications@rsacademics.com. Jonathan can also be reached by calling our Head Office on +44 (0) 204 6269 791.
Please note that RSAcademics’ offices are closed from lunchtime on Christmas Eve until 9.00am on Friday 2nd January. We understand the need for confidentiality and all discussions and interviews will be handled with very careful regard to this.
The school is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. It seeks to attract and retain the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and the local community. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, and the receipt of two satisfactory references, including one from your current employer. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.
RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.
Senior Deputy Head employer: Catholic Independent Schools
Contact Detail:
Catholic Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Deputy Head
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a Senior Deputy Head role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Woldingham is all about community and academic excellence, so think about how your leadership style aligns with their mission. Bring examples of how you've inspired students and staff in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your emotional intelligence during interviews. It’s not just about your qualifications; it’s about how you connect with others. Be ready to discuss how you’ve handled challenges and built relationships in your previous roles.
✨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 genuinely excited about joining our community at Woldingham.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Deputy Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Personal in Your Covering Letter: When writing your covering letter, make it personal! Share your passion for education and why you’re excited about the role at Woldingham. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with the values of Woldingham. We’re looking for candidates who can inspire and lead, so showcase those skills!
Follow the Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions. Ensure you submit all required documents in PDF format and address your covering letter to Mrs Sue Baillie. We appreciate candidates who can follow directions!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply! Early applications are encouraged, and we might even fill the position before the closing date. So, get your application in through our website as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catholic Independent Schools
✨Know the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with Woldingham's Catholic ethos and values. Reflect on how your own beliefs align with the school's mission, and be prepared to discuss this during the interview. This will show your genuine interest in the role and commitment to the community.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your past leadership roles and successes. Highlight how you've inspired staff and students, managed teams, and contributed to academic excellence. Use metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Collaborative Mindset
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including parents, staff, and students. Think of examples where you’ve successfully built relationships and fostered a positive school culture. This is crucial for a Senior Deputy Head role.
✨Engage with the Community
Research Woldingham's extracurricular programmes and community initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to these areas and enhance student life. Showing enthusiasm for the school's holistic approach will set you apart from other candidates.
