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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team to transform education for students with special needs.
- Company: Join a nurturing school committed to making a real difference in young people's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven organisation focused on safeguarding and student welfare.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and champion inclusive practices in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience in specialist education settings required.
The predicted salary is between 60145 - 66368 £ per year.
Location: Darwen, Lancashire
Salary: £60,145 – £66,368 (L7–L11) depending on experience
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (40 hours per week)
Start Date: September 2026
Interview Date: 22nd May
About the Opportunity
We are working in partnership with an exceptional Primary and Secondary Special Education school to recruit an outstanding Deputy Headteacher for a unique setting supporting young people aged 10–19. This is a rewarding opportunity to join a forward-thinking, nurturing school environment that supports students with ASC, ADHD and SEMH needs. The setting is designed to provide a calm, structured and inspiring environment, enabling every learner to build confidence, develop independence and achieve meaningful outcomes. With a small cohort (approx. 64 students) and a highly collaborative team, the school prides itself on delivering a personalised curriculum that truly makes a difference.
The Role
As Deputy Headteacher, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the school, working closely with the Headteacher to:
- Provide strong, visible leadership across the school
- Drive excellence in teaching, learning and outcomes
- Support and develop a high-performing, committed staff team
- Lead on key whole-school priorities, ensuring sustained improvement
- Champion inclusive, student-centred approaches to education
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced leader who is passionate about transforming futures through education.
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- A relevant further professional qualification
- Experience within a specialist ASD and/or SEMH setting
- Proven track record of whole-school leadership impact
- Experience translating strategy/policy into effective practice
- Leadership responsibility across a key phase, department or inclusion
- Experience working with governance or senior stakeholders
- Strong understanding of quality assurance processes (e.g. observations, performance management)
Why Apply?
- Be part of a values-driven organisation making a genuine impact
- Work in a supportive, collaborative leadership team
- Influence whole-school strategy and drive meaningful change
Safeguarding
This role is subject to safeguarding checks, including enhanced DBS clearance. The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
Deputy Headteacher in Darwen employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher in Darwen
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who have experience in special education settings. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s ethos and values. Understand their approach to supporting students with ASC, ADHD, and SEMH needs. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you've driven change or improved outcomes in previous roles. Be ready to share these during the interview to demonstrate your impact and vision as a Deputy Headteacher.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream role.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher in Darwen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Deputy Headteacher. Use specific examples from your past that demonstrate your leadership skills and commitment to inclusive education.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for transforming futures through education shine through in your written application. Share why you’re passionate about working with students with ASC, ADHD, and SEMH needs, and how you can contribute to their success.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us easily understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application is received promptly and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary information about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the role and the school’s ethos. Familiarise yourself with their approach to supporting students with ASC, ADHD, and SEMH needs. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your past leadership experiences, especially in a specialist setting. Think about how you’ve driven excellence in teaching and learning, and be ready to discuss how you can translate strategy into effective practice at this school.
✨Engage with the Team
Since the school prides itself on collaboration, be prepared to discuss how you would support and develop a high-performing staff team. Share your ideas on fostering a nurturing environment and how you can champion inclusive, student-centred approaches.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about their current whole-school priorities or how they measure success in their unique setting. It shows you’re thinking critically about the role and how you can make a meaningful impact.