Deputy Headteacher - An Exceptional Leadership Opportunity

Rhodes Wood Hospital School (RWHS) is an Ofsted Outstanding independent hospital school providing education for up to 38 students aged 8-18 who are inpatients receiving specialist treatment for eating disorders and associated mental health conditions in a CYPMHS unit. We are a school like no other – a place where education, care, and treatment work hand in hand to support recovery, rebuild confidence, and reignite a love of learning. Our pupils are bright, ambitious, and high attaining; they require teachers and leaders who understand both their potential and their individual journey. We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our senior leadership team at this pivotal stage in our development. The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker, an experienced educator, and a compassionate leader, capable of combining academic rigour with a deep understanding of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. We would like the successful candidate to start in January 2026, but we recognise the importance of finding the right person and are willing to wait for the right candidate who shares our vision and values.

Role

• Deputise for the Headteacher and play a key role in strategic and operational leadership.
• Lead on curriculum coordination, student progress, timetabling, and examinations.
• Oversee ward‑based education, ensuring that learning continues for students unable to attend the main school.
• Build strong links with home and community schools across England, ensuring continuity of education and successful reintegration.
• Model outstanding teaching, with a commitment to trauma‑informed and inclusive practice.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), promoting the highest standards of welfare and care.

We Are Looking For a Leader Who

• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and has proven school leadership experience.
• Demonstrates excellence in curriculum design, data‑driven improvement, and staff development.
• Leads with empathy, clarity, and accountability in a complex and specialist setting.
• Has a strong understanding of SEMH, SEND, and hospital education contexts.
• Believes in high expectations and high support for every student and colleague.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work in an Ofsted Outstanding school with a national reputation for excellence.
• A small, highly supportive team where collaboration and innovation thrive.
• Small class sizes and the opportunity for deeply personalised teaching and leadership.
• Ongoing professional development and CPD investment.
• Free on‑site parking, lunch provision, and a private pension scheme with Scottish Widows.

We warmly encourage you to visit the school before applying to experience our unique setting and meet our dedicated team. Contact Sharon Tuffnell on 01707 655344 for an informal conversation or email her at stuffnell@elysiumeducation.co.uk.