Deputy Head (Culture, Community and Boarding)

We are seeking an inspiring, forward-thinking and highly committed Deputy Head (Culture, Community and Boarding). This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader who is passionate about modern, relevant and world-class boarding, and who can bring warmth, vision and operational excellence to this vital area of the school. The successful candidate will also serve as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for boarding and will report to the Head. There will also be a teaching allocation of 12 periods.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Leadership & Management
  • Provide strategic leadership, development and operational oversight of the boarding provision, ensuring it is aligned with modern boarding practices, school ethos and regulatory standards.
  • Line manage a small team of Boarding House Managers (BHMs), ensuring effective leadership within each house.
  • Oversee recruitment, induction, training and ongoing professional development of boarding staff.
  • Work with the chaplaincy team, ensuring pastoral and spiritual support is integrated into whole school and boarding life.
  • Play an active role in the recruitment of boarders – across the boarding spectrum – from flexi to full – local and overseas.
  • Champion outreach and community partnerships that align with the school's values and strategic priorities, including philanthropic and bursary initiatives.
  • Play an active role in the school’s commercial development alongside the Head and Senior Deputy Head.
• Safeguarding & Compliance
  • Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for boarding, ensuring compliance with statutory safeguarding requirements.
  • Ensure adherence to the National Minimum Standards (NMS) for boarding schools.
  • Maintain accurate records and reporting for safeguarding, welfare and compliance audits.
  • Maintain oversight of UKVI regulations and practice for international boarders.
  • Own, maintain and enhance policies and Risk Assessments related to boarding.
• Operational Oversight
  • Develop and manage the boarding rota, including duty nights and weekend coverage.
  • Liaise with catering services to ensure all pupils and especially boarders’ dietary needs and preferences are met.
  • Oversee budgets and resource allocation in collaboration with finance and operations teams.
• Student Welfare & Experience
  • Promote a safe, caring and inclusive environment for all boarders.
  • Ensure effective communication with parents and guardians regarding student welfare and boarding matters.
  • Ensure Pupil Voice is used effectively to support best boarding practice and enhance the student experience.
  • Ensure increased integration between boarders and day pupils.
  • Building the warmth and connection between boarder parents and the school.
• Quality Assurance & Development
  • Monitor and evaluate the boarding provision, implementing improvements where needed.
  • Lead initiatives to enhance the boarding experience, including extracurricular and pastoral programmes.
  • Prepare and present reports to senior leadership and governors on boarding performance and compliance.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and people‑management skills.
• In‑depth knowledge of safeguarding and boarding regulations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Resilient, organised, and proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Some out of term commitment may be required to liaise with potential commercial partners, although it is envisaged that this will be flexible to postholder commitments.

St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS and barred list check. The School is an equal opportunities employer.