At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead learning, teaching, and assessment at a vibrant school with 860 pupils.
- Company: Kirkwall Grammar School, a modern and well-resourced educational institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation package available.
- Other info: Join a supportive leadership team and enjoy professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young people's education and lead meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Must have provisional registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 79215 - 79215 £ per year.
35 hours per week Permanent £79,215. The above amount includes Distant Islands Allowance. You will be reporting to Ruth McKay, Head Teacher. Your working pattern is Monday to Friday. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
Kirkwall Grammar School is a vibrant school of around 860 pupils with a catchment area which covers Kirkwall, the East Mainland, Orphir and the North and South Isles. Around 60 of our young people are accommodated in Papdale Halls of Residence during term time. The school building is modern, bright and well-resourced. Young people benefit from many opportunities within their wider curriculum including a strong tradition of music and creativity and a range of sports and outdoor activities.
Orkney is a place of significant natural beauty, with a rich heritage. The old and the new collide where World Heritage Archaeological Sites look over sector leading renewables research facilities.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled practitioner to take up the position of Depute Head Teacher with responsibility for Learning, Teaching and Assessment. You will join a Senior Leadership team comprised of two other DHTs, a Head Teacher and a Business Manager. You will be committed to improvement and excellence and have a genuine interest in supporting young people to achieve their best. This will be reflected in a strong focus on positive outcomes for all young people through the development of high-quality learning and teaching and an inclusive curriculum.
You will have the ability to develop and sustain effective relationships across the school community. In common with DHT colleagues, this role carries responsibility as Head of one of our three school houses, supported by two Principal Teachers of Guidance. This is an exciting opportunity to lead meaningful change and improvement across the school community, supported by significant investment in evidence-based professional learning.
You must have a minimum of provisional registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland. Salary will be based on the Depute Head Teachers and Headteachers of the SNCT Salary Tables plus a Distant Islands Allowance. The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership. Interview expenses are payable for this post. Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 14 June 2026, with shortlisting taking place on 16 June 2026 and interviews are scheduled for 25 and 26 June 2026. For a discussion about the role, contact Ruth McKay at ruth.mckay@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 872102. We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Depute Head Teacher, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10424 employer: Orkney Islands Council
Kirkwall Grammar School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment where educators can thrive. With a commitment to professional development and a focus on high-quality learning, staff are encouraged to grow and innovate while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in a stunning location rich in heritage and natural beauty. The school promotes a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the school's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Depute Head Teacher, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10424
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Kirkwall Grammar School on LinkedIn or through mutual contacts. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their commitment to improvement and excellence in learning.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or projects, especially those that resulted in positive outcomes for students. This will resonate well with the Senior Leadership team.
✨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 love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Depute Head Teacher, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10424
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Depute Head Teacher. We want to see how you can contribute to our vibrant school community!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for education and supporting young people shine through in your written application. We’re looking for someone who is genuinely committed to improvement and excellence!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas, as we appreciate clarity and directness in communication.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps streamline the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the school’s ethos, values, and recent achievements. Research Kirkwall Grammar School and its community to show your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. Highlight your experience in learning, teaching, and assessment, and be ready to discuss how you can foster positive outcomes for all students.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about how you can build effective relationships within the school community. Be prepared to discuss your approach to inclusivity and how you plan to engage with parents, staff, and students alike.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the school's future plans, professional development opportunities, or how they measure success in learning and teaching.
