At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire as Deputy Headteacher in a vibrant Catholic school community.
- Company: St Richard’s Catholic Primary School, part of Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership.
- Benefits: Supportive leadership, professional development, and a warm school community.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression and strong community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact in a values-driven environment while nurturing young minds.
- Qualifications: Practising Catholic with leadership experience and commitment to education.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 60000 € per year.
An exciting opportunity to join the leadership of a thriving Catholic school. St Richard’s Catholic Primary School is seeking an inspirational, committed and enthusiastic Deputy Headteacher to join our leadership team. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will work closely with the Headteacher to drive school improvement, uphold high standards of teaching and learning, and strengthen our mission as a Catholic school rooted in Gospel values. This is a reserved post, open to practising Catholics who can actively support and promote the Catholic life, ethos and mission of our school. The role includes some classroom responsibility.
About Our School
St Richard’s is a welcoming, nurturing and vibrant school community where every child is known, valued and encouraged to flourish academically, spiritually and personally. As part of Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership (KCSP)—a family of 32 Catholic schools across Kent, we are committed to providing high-quality Catholic education, underpinned by faith, ambition, love and service. We are proud of:
- Our friendly, motivated pupils and positive learning environment
- Our committed staff who work collaboratively and support one another
- Our strong partnerships with parents, parish and the wider community
- Our ambitious culture of continual improvement
The Role
As Deputy Headteacher, you will:
- Support the Headteacher in leading the strategic direction and day-to-day management of the school
- Model and promote outstanding teaching, learning and professional practice
- Lead high-quality professional development and contribute to whole-school improvement
- Oversee key areas of curriculum, assessment, pupil progress and inclusion
- Take a leading role in safeguarding and the wellbeing of pupils
- Support teachers and support staff in upholding excellent standards of behaviour, care and learning
- Contribute to self-evaluation, policy development and effective use of data
- Foster strong relationships with staff, pupils, families, governors, parish and external partners
- Hold a teaching commitment of 3 days per week
Catholic Leadership
As Deputy Headteacher, you will play a central role in shaping and sustaining the Catholic life of the school. This is a reserved post, open to practising Catholics who:
- Have been sacramentally initiated into the Catholic Church
- Live in accordance with the teachings and moral life of the Church
- Demonstrate their faith through their actions, leadership, and example
This ensures the school continues to grow as a joyful, faith-filled Catholic community.
We Offer
- A warm, caring and welcoming school community
- Well‑motivated pupils who enjoy learning
- A supportive, forward‑thinking leadership team and committed staff
- Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression
- Strong Trust‑wide networks and high‑quality KCSP CPD
- A school community with strong parish links and engaged families
- The chance to make a significant, lasting impact in a values‑driven Catholic school
Visits and Enquiries
We warmly encourage prospective applicants to visit St Richard’s to experience our community and ethos. Please contact Andrew Gretton, Area Business Manager, via email to arrange a visit: agretton@kcsp.org.uk
How to Apply
Application forms and supporting documents can be downloaded here. Your supporting statement (max. 2,000 words) should clearly demonstrate:
- Your suitability for this role
- Your commitment to Catholic education
- The skills, experience and professional qualities you would bring to St Richard’s
Completed applications need to be submitted by 9.00am on Friday 1st May 2026.
Safeguarding
St Richard’s Catholic Primary School and KCSP are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to:
- Enhanced DBS check
- Section 128 check (where applicable)
- Online and social media checks
- Satisfactory references
Join Us
This is a wonderful opportunity for a practising Catholic leader to help shape the next chapter of our school’s journey. We look forward to receiving your application.
Deputy Headteacher, St Richard’s Catholic Primary School in Dover employer: Education Commission for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark
St Richard’s Catholic Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and vibrant community where every child is valued and encouraged to thrive. As part of the Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership, we provide excellent professional development opportunities and a supportive leadership team dedicated to fostering a culture of continual improvement. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a values-driven environment that prioritises both academic and spiritual growth.
Contact Detail:
Education Commission for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher, St Richard’s Catholic Primary School in Dover
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to visit St Richard’s and soak in the atmosphere. Chat with staff and parents if you can; it’ll give you a real feel for the community and help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Catholic education! When you’re in the interview, make sure to highlight your commitment to the Catholic ethos and how you’ve embodied these values in your previous roles. We want to see that you live and breathe the mission of the school.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style! As a Deputy Headteacher, you’ll be leading a team, so think about examples from your past where you’ve inspired others or driven improvement. We love hearing about your successes and how you can bring that energy to our school.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the school’s future or its community involvement. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and invested in being part of St Richard’s.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher, St Richard’s Catholic Primary School in Dover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Catholic Education:Make sure to highlight your commitment to Catholic education in your supporting statement. We want to see how your values align with our mission and how you can contribute to the spiritual life of St Richard’s.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When detailing your skills and experience, be specific! Use examples that demonstrate your leadership abilities and how you've driven school improvement in the past. We love seeing concrete evidence of your impact.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your supporting statement to reflect the unique aspects of St Richard’s and how you can help us uphold our high standards. Show us you’ve done your homework!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Education Commission for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark
✨Know Your Catholic Values
As a Deputy Headteacher, it's crucial to demonstrate your commitment to the Catholic ethos. Be prepared to discuss how your faith influences your leadership style and decision-making. Reflect on specific examples where you've integrated Gospel values into your teaching or school community.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous leadership roles and how they align with the responsibilities of this position. Prepare to share concrete examples of how you've driven school improvement, supported staff development, and fostered a positive learning environment. This will show that you’re ready to step into a key role in their leadership team.
✨Engage with the School Community
Research St Richard’s Catholic Primary School and its community. Be ready to discuss how you would strengthen relationships with parents, parish, and external partners. Showing that you understand the importance of collaboration will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios related to safeguarding, pupil progress, and inclusion. Think through your approach to these challenges and be ready to articulate your strategies clearly. This will demonstrate your readiness to handle the day-to-day management of the school effectively.
