At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to enhance student learning and school improvement.
- Company: Thundersley Primary School, part of Robus Multi Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Supportive community, enthusiastic pupils, and strong professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education in a vibrant and nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Strong primary expertise and leadership skills with a commitment to safeguarding.
- Other info: Join a collaborative culture focused on teamwork and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Position Start Date: 01/09/2026
Contract Type: Full-time
Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 22/01/2026
Date of Interviews: w/c 2nd February 2026
Thundersley Primary School Leadership Scale: L8-L13
Start Date: 13 April 2026 or 1 September 2026
Due to the upcoming retirement of our long-serving Deputy Headteacher, we are seeking an inspirational, dedicated and child-centred leader to join our senior leadership team and help shape the next stage of our school's journey. Thundersley Primary School is a vibrant, nurturing and ambitious school where every child is encouraged to "Be the Best You Can Be." As part of Robus Multi Academy Trust, we work collaboratively with other local schools to strengthen teaching, leadership and staff development.
Candidate Profile
- Is an excellent practitioner with strong primary expertise
- Is a leader who leads with integrity, kindness and ambition
- Can inspire, support and challenge staff
- Has strategic insight and a passion for school improvement
- Is committed to safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusion
Benefits
- A warm, supportive and caring school community
- Enthusiastic, motivated pupils who love learning
- A highly committed and experienced staff team
- Strong CPD and leadership opportunities through Robus MAT
- A school culture built on teamwork, respect and professional growth
Thundersley Primary School and Robus MAT are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and expect all staff to share this commitment. Appointment is subject to enhanced DBS and references. Visits to the school are warmly encouraged – we would love to meet you. Please contact Ann Waumsley through the school office on 01268 793251 to arrange a tour for January. Closing date: Thursday 22 January 2026 at 12:00pm. Interviews: Week commencing 2 February 2026. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Deputy Headteacher employer: Shorefields
Contact Detail:
Shorefields Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a tour of Thundersley Primary School. This will not only help you understand the environment but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current staff! Reach out to teachers or leaders at the school through social media or professional networks. They can give you insider info on the school culture and what they value in a Deputy Headteacher.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific challenges in leadership, safeguarding, and school improvement. This shows you’re ready to tackle real issues head-on.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to showcase your passion! During the interview, share stories that highlight your commitment to child-centred leadership and how you’ve inspired others. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how you can inspire and support both staff and students at Thundersley Primary School.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the job description. We’re looking for someone who embodies our values of integrity, kindness, and ambition, so reflect that in your writing!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff – we want to know what makes you the best fit for this role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates about the process. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand Thundersley Primary School's ethos and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to nurturing every child and how they encourage pupils to 'Be the Best You Can Be'. This will help you align your answers with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Deputy Headteacher, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've led with integrity, kindness, and ambition in previous roles. Think about specific situations where you've inspired and supported staff, as well as how you've tackled challenges.
✨Emphasise Safeguarding and Inclusion
Given the importance of safeguarding and inclusion at Thundersley Primary, be ready to discuss your experience in these areas. Share your strategies for ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students, and highlight any relevant training or initiatives you've been involved in.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the school's culture, CPD opportunities, and how they collaborate with other schools in the Robus Multi Academy Trust. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.