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- Tasks: Lead curriculum development and ensure high-quality teaching for SEND students.
- Company: Join ISP School Whitstable, a nurturing environment for vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Collaborative leadership team with professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and experience in SEND required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Are you the right candidate for this opportunity? Make sure to read the full description below.
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.
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.
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.
Deputy Headteacher in Maidstone employer: ISP School
Contact Detail:
ISP School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher in Maidstone
✨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 before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their holistic approach to education and safeguarding.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've led teams or initiatives that improved outcomes for students, especially those with complex needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Deputy Headteacher and how your experience aligns with our needs.
Showcase Your SEN Experience: We want to see your passion for supporting children with SEND. Highlight any relevant experience you have, especially in curriculum development and working with vulnerable children. This is your chance to shine!
Be Authentic and Personal: Let your personality come through in your application. We value authenticity, so share your journey and what drives you to work in this field. A personal touch can make all the difference!
Apply Through Our Website: Once you're ready, head over to our website to submit your application. It's the best way to ensure it reaches us directly, and we can't wait to hear from you!
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 in the past to adapt lessons for diverse learning needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership experiences, especially in managing teams and fostering a supportive environment. Think of examples where you’ve inspired others or implemented changes that benefited students.
✨Emphasise Your SEN Experience
Highlight your experience working with children who have SEMH needs and ASD. Share specific instances where you’ve made a positive impact on their learning and emotional wellbeing.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the school’s approach to safeguarding and curriculum development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school aligns with your values.