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- Tasks: Lead the establishment of a new Centre for children with special educational needs.
- Company: Join Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy career progression, pension schemes, and employee wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while shaping an innovative educational environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and substantial leadership experience in SEND settings required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community dedicated to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Department for Education (DfE) granted permission for Bedelsford School to open a temporary satellite site for children with special education needs in the London Borough of Merton in September 2025. Bedelsford Chaucer Centre will have capacity for 40 places in the first year with the potential to increase up to 80 children over a three-year period. The provision will be for children who have a range of moderate to severe learning difficulties and complex needs. This is likely to include Speech Language and Communication Needs and may also include Autism Spectrum Conditions and other associated areas of need. The DfE has also given approval for OHCAT to open a brand new purpose-built Free School in Merton and the aim is that pupils and staff will transfer across to the new Free School when it is completed. We are seeking an inspirational Deputy Head of School to join the Leadership Team at this exciting new Centre. You will work closely with the Head of School to establish and develop the Chaucer Centre, helping to shape its vision, culture, and provision. This role is ideal for a proactive leader who thrives in a start‑up environment within a well‑established Trust.
Responsibilities
- Support the Head of School in establishing and leading the new Chaucer Centre, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and student welfare.
- Lead curriculum planning, implementation, and monitoring, promoting inclusive and high‑quality education.
- Manage, support, and develop staff, including performance management and professional growth.
- Ensure safeguarding, inclusion, and student wellbeing are central to all aspects of the Centre.
- Build strong partnerships with students, families, and the wider community, representing the Centre within the Trust.
Qualifications
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with substantial leadership experience, ideally in a specialist or SEND setting.
- Strong knowledge of curriculum development, assessment, and inclusive teaching practices.
- Proven ability to lead, inspire, and manage staff effectively.
- Commitment to safeguarding, student welfare, and promoting an inclusive learning environment.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills to engage students, families, and the wider community.
Benefits
- Pathways for progression within the trust, ensuring you can grow and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Pension Scheme – you will be enrolled in either the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or the Teachers\’ Pension Scheme (TPS), both offering life cover and financial protection for your family.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes (Cycle Scheme and Home Electronics Scheme).
- Employee Wellbeing – We support employee wellbeing with access to counselling, mental health support, generous leave, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave including Employee Assistance Programme, MyGym Discounts, Corporate Eyecare Scheme.
- Employee Discounts (Blue Light Card, Costco Membership, Discounts for Teachers, and more).
- Other (Season Ticket Loan and Employee Referral Scheme).
Closing Date: 6th November 2025. Interviews will take place on: The week commencing 10th November 2025.
Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for all. The Trust is committed to promoting and advancing equality of opportunity by attracting and retaining the most diverse range of students, staff and partners. The Trust is a family of specialist education providers from pre‑school through to further education across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire and fully represents all designations of special education needs and disabilities (SEND). We employ over 1500 people across our schools, college and central support team, and our mission is to provide the best possible opportunities to achieve full potential for all students and staff.
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Deputy Head of School employer: Orchard Hill College
Contact Detail:
Orchard Hill College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with special education needs. They might have insider info on opportunities or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Understand their approach to inclusive education and be ready to share how your experience aligns with their mission. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in challenging environments. We love to hear about your proactive approach and how you inspire others.
✨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, we’re always looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about joining our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for special education shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of children with complex needs.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in leadership and SEND settings. We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so share specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key messages come across clearly. This will help us understand your fit for the role quickly.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Bedelsford School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Hill College
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to think about your vision for the Chaucer Centre. Be ready to discuss how you would shape its culture and provision, especially in relation to students with special educational needs. This shows that you're proactive and aligned with the school's goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in a SEND setting. Highlight your approach to staff development and performance management, as this role requires strong leadership skills. Use specific anecdotes to illustrate your ability to inspire and manage effectively.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity
Given the focus on inclusive education, be ready to discuss your knowledge of inclusive teaching practices and how you've implemented them. Share strategies you've used to ensure all students feel supported and included, which is crucial for this role.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about how you would build partnerships with families and the wider community. Prepare to discuss any previous experiences where you've successfully engaged stakeholders. This will demonstrate your commitment to creating a supportive environment for students and their families.
