Deputy Head (Pastoral), Bedales Prep & Pre-prep

Following the current postholder’s appointment to headship, we are seeking a Deputy Head (Pastoral) at our Prep and Pre-prep school. The successful candidate will be an inspirational and dynamic educator and pastoral champion with a commitment to ensuring that every student makes exceptional progress in our forward-thinking school. In 2023, we launched an ambitious and headline-grabbing ten year strategic plan which sets Bedales on a pathway to growth and innovation. The role of Deputy Head (Pastoral) is central to the ongoing success of these goals, and the candidate who takes up the position should be capable and excited about being part of this change.

Bedales School is a unique educational establishment, set in 120 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside. Our aim is to create an environment where questioning, divergent thinking and freedom to learn from mistakes are all encouraged. Central to our success is the sense that each person is a member of our community whose voice is entitled to be heard and treated with respect. Both our staff and students expect of each other the best kind of relationships – co-operative, authentic and trustful.

Experience & Background

• You will bring proven experience in leading and motivating a team within a primary school setting, alongside excellent pastoral skills.
• You are committed to supporting young learners in developing social and emotional skills, helping them to understand themselves and others.
• You approach change with positivity and optimism, underpinned by a strong sense of self and an empathetic understanding of those around you.
• As a relationships-driven school, the ability to connect with and inspire others is central to success in this role.
• As an experienced leader, you can translate ideas into clear plans and actions.
• While experience within a boarding community is desirable, it is not essential.
• As an innovative school, we value open-mindedness and a willingness to embrace evidence-based approaches to teaching, learning, and working.

A competitive salary package, including fee remission is offered to the right candidate.

Timetable

The Deputy Head (Pastoral) post is timetabled to teach a minimum of 8 lessons a week, usually within a subject specialism, and undertakes two after school activities a week. Learning at the school takes place throughout the day with most core curriculum commitments for students scheduled from 09:00 hrs to 17:30 hrs on Monday to Friday, and until 12:35 hrs on Saturday. Students also have access to optional activities before and after the main school day. Typically, students do not have core curriculum lessons scheduled on Wednesday afternoons. Bedales is a busy boarding school so work during the evenings, weekends and holidays may be required.

This post is Regulated Activity.

Pre-Appointment Checks

All candidates will undergo a Safeguarding Suitability Interview and application for an Enhanced DBS and Barred List check and be asked to provide evidence they are eligible to work in the UK, on an on-going basis, at the shortlist stage of the selection process.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for this post, please read the Job Description which is attached to the advert on the school's website. This includes full details regarding the post. In line with KCSIE 2025 guidance, CVs cannot be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application form.

Closing date: 9:00am, Thursday 19 February 2026

Application discussion reviews via TEAMS: Monday 23 – Wednesday 25 February 2026

Interview date: Thursday 5 March 2026

To find out more about this opportunity, candidates can contact Bee Usmar, Head’s PA, by email to busmar@bedales.org.uk

Safeguarding Statement

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Candidates will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Prohibition from Teaching Checks, Prohibition from Management Checks.

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post include:

• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children;
• Fostering a culture of openness, safety, equality and protection;
• Providing a safe and welcoming environment where both children and adults feel secure, able to talk and believe that they are being listened to;
• Playing a key role in prevention of harm and an equal responsibility to act on any suspicion or disclosure that may indicate a child is at risk of harm;
• When concerned about the welfare of a student, acting in the best interests of the student.

All staff have a key role to play in identifying concerns early and in providing help for children and are expected to act in accordance with the school Safeguarding & Child Protection Policies.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the School is therefore permitted to ask job candidates to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are “spent” unless they are “protected” under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.