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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team while supporting students with complex learning needs.
- Company: Join Abbey Gardens School, part of Acorn Education, a leader in specialist education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, life assurance, pension options, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives in a nurturing environment with a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Must have UK QTS or equivalent and experience with diverse learning needs.
- Other info: Be part of a new school opening in 2026, shaping its future from the start.
How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?
All potential applicants are encouraged to scroll through and read the complete job description before applying.
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.
That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG.
Job Title: Deputy Headteacher
Location: Abbey Gardens School, Bury St Edmunds IP32 6SA
Salary: Up to £55,000.00 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday,
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
As part of our continued growth, we now have a fantastic opportunity for a Deputy Headteacher to join our close-knit team at Abbey Gardens School, part of Acorn Education.
We are looking to appoint an inspiring, dynamic and committed Deputy Headteacher who will join our Senior Leadership Team.
The successful candidate will have experience of working with students with a range of complex learning needs. You will be able to demonstrate a working understanding of how these needs impact upon learning and behaviour in the classroom.
You may have specialist knowledge and experience of working with pupils with Autism or with social, emotional and mental health needs, or you may have experience of working across both specialisms. You will be expected to create a culture that enables all learners and staff to excel.
As Deputy Headteacher, you will have an excellent understanding of the independent school standards and the education inspection framework. You will promote a relentless focus on the quality of education and delivery of a broad and relevant curriculum that meets the needs of pupils and produces positive outcomes.
Working with the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team, you will ensure the school has effective management and the required team capability to further develop and continually improve.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking to hear from passionate individuals with experience of working with pupils with a range of complex learning needs. We are looking for someone who knows how to bring a creative and innovative approach to improving performance and support for our pupils and their families.
An excellent communicator, you will act as an ambassador for the school and will have demonstrable experience of working in partnership with parents, local authorities and other stakeholders.
If you are a truly inspirational, highly motivated, and forward-thinking leader, with the energy and passion to change lives coupled with proven experience of whole school development and improvement, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.
In return for your experience and commitment, we offer outstanding career opportunities, access to a network of great senior colleagues within the Outcomes First Group and the chance to shape the future and ongoing development of the school.
Requirement: UK QTS or equivalent
For a full list of Duties and Responsibilities, please see the Job Description
About Us
Abbey Gardens is an exciting new addition to the Acorn Education family, set to open its doors in March/April 2026. Designed to support students aged 11 to 18, the school will offer a nurturing and inclusive learning environment tailored to meet the diverse needs of its pupils.
As part of Acorn Education, Abbey Gardens will benefit from a strong foundation of expertise in delivering high-quality education and support, helping pupils thrive both academically and personally.
Acorn Education is the UK’s leading independent provider of specialist education. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.
Why join Acorn Education?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
“Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:
A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
Cycle to Work Schemes
Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
*You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit
#1
Deputy Headteacher employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the 4-Day Working Week model that Outcomes First Group is implementing. Understanding how this structure works will not only help you align your expectations but also demonstrate your enthusiasm for their innovative approach to work-life balance during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Abbey Gardens School and its ethos, especially regarding its commitment to supporting students with complex learning needs. Being able to discuss specific initiatives or values of the school in your conversations will show your genuine interest and fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members at Outcomes First Group or similar institutions. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the school's culture and expectations, which you can leverage in your discussions during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your leadership style and how it aligns with the school's vision. Think about specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or initiatives that improved educational outcomes, particularly for students with special needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Deputy Headteacher position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, especially regarding experience with complex learning needs.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the requirements of the role. Emphasise your leadership experience, understanding of independent school standards, and any specific knowledge related to Autism or social, emotional, and mental health needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your commitment to improving student outcomes. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you can contribute to the school's vision and culture.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Deputy Headteacher. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the needs of the school, especially in relation to working with students with complex learning needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Headteacher, you'll be part of the Senior Leadership Team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past, particularly those that improved student outcomes or staff development.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with parents, local authorities, or other stakeholders. Highlight your ability to act as an ambassador for the school.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Wellbeing
With the focus on wellbeing and work/life balance at Outcomes First Group, express your understanding of these values. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to creating a supportive environment for both students and staff.
