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- Tasks: Lead curriculum development and ensure high-quality teaching for SEND students.
- Company: ISP School Whitstable, a nurturing environment for children with complex needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and experience in SEND required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to holistic education and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Deputy Headteacher with Curriculum and Safeguarding Responsibility
Contract: Full-time, term time only
Salary: From £45,000 depending on experience
Location: Whitstable, Kent
Start Date: September 2026
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
About the School
ISP School Whitstable is an independent specialist provision serving children and young people (CYP) in Kent and Medway who live with their families, foster parents or in residential children's homes. Our school supports CYP with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We provide high-quality education, adopting a holistic and tailored approach, complemented by a range of support services for each and every one of our children.
We are looking for an inspirational leader with SEN experience. This role would suit someone looking to step into senior leadership from a middle leadership position, or an experienced Deputy Headteacher seeking a new opportunity. ISP Schools pride themselves on employing people who are passionate, dedicated and innovative, while embracing our holistic, therapeutic approach. Our ethos promotes positive relationships, self-discipline, self-esteem and resilience, enabling both staff and children to thrive and progress.
This is an exciting opportunity to join an established organisation working with vulnerable children with a wide range of behavioural and emotional needs. Our team is welcoming, supportive and collaborative. Are you ready to join a supportive and nurturing community that works together to achieve the very best outcomes for its children? If so, we could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference.
For more information and an informal discussion, please contact Carole Cox, Headteacher, on 01795 523900.
About Us
ISP School Whitstable provides specialist education for Key Stage 2 children aged 7-11 with social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMH), as well as communication and interaction, cognition and learning needs. This is a small provision with a maximum of 24 children with complex needs who often present with challenging behaviours. We offer a safe and nurturing environment, with well-trained, supportive staff. Combined with our therapeutic approach, this enables our children to develop the tools and skills they need to achieve their potential.
We are part of the Polaris Community and have been passionately improving the lives of children for over 30 years. Within the Polaris Community, we now have over 15 SEN schools across the UK, all working together to provide each child with a tailored, diverse and appropriate education in a safe and supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning and encourages achievement.
The Role
- We are seeking a caring and forward-thinking leader to join our team as Deputy Headteacher with curriculum responsibility.
- Ensure high-quality teaching and learning across the school, with a focus on inclusion and differentiated instruction for SEND students.
- Assess, monitor, record and report on the learning needs, progress and achievements of pupils, working alongside the SENCo.
- Take a lead on whole-school strategic planning and the continued development of the curriculum.
- Provide curriculum training for staff during training sessions and INSET, valuing your own and others' CPD.
What We're Looking For
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with experience in SEND.
- Experience of delivering a high-quality curriculum with a focus on supporting young people with SEND.
- Experience of leading and managing teams with a compassionate and therapeutic approach.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work inclusively with staff, students and families.
- A proactive and adaptable attitude, able to develop systems and processes aligned with the school's values and ethos.
What We Offer
- A unique opportunity to shape curriculum development and SEND provision.
- A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
- Professional development opportunities within the Polaris Community.
- An opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of children with complex needs.
Locations
Deputy Headteacher in Kent, Whitstable employer: ISP School
Contact Detail:
ISP School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher in Kent, Whitstable
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s ethos and values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission, especially in supporting children with SEMH needs. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. Use examples from your past roles that highlight your leadership skills and your approach to curriculum development and safeguarding.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role and keeping you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher in Kent, Whitstable
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Deputy Headteacher role. Highlight your experience with SEND and how it aligns with our holistic approach at ISP School Whitstable.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past, especially those that demonstrate your compassionate and therapeutic approach to education.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at ISP School
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the curriculum and how it supports children with SEND. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to adapt lessons for diverse learning needs, as this will show your understanding of inclusive education.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership experiences, especially in managing teams and fostering a supportive environment. Share examples of how you've motivated staff and collaborated with them to enhance teaching practices.
✨Emphasise Your SEN Experience
Highlight your experience working with children who have SEMH needs and ASD. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully implemented interventions or support systems that have made a positive impact on students’ learning and wellbeing.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the school’s approach to safeguarding and curriculum development. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school’s ethos aligns with your values and vision for education.