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- Tasks: Lead a vibrant prep school, inspiring excellence in teaching and nurturing student growth.
- Company: Alleyn's Oakfield, part of a prestigious group with over 400 years of educational excellence.
- Benefits: Beautiful surroundings, excellent transport links, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a flourishing school and make a real impact on young lives.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership, emotional intelligence, and a passion for education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment with a commitment to safeguarding and child welfare.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
The Alleyn’s Schools Group is delighted to invite applications for the next Head of Alleyn’s Oakfield, a joyful, warm and ambitious prep school for children aged 4–11 in the heart of leafy West Dulwich. In August 2025, Oakfield Prep formally became Alleyn’s Oakfield, joining a family of schools with more than 400 years of educational excellence, a distinctive values‑led culture, and a shared commitment to inspiring every pupil and member of staff to be “all they can be.” This is a pivotal and exciting moment for the school. With recent and future investment in buildings and facilities, a vibrant curriculum, a thriving co‑curricular programme and a nurturing, community‑centred ethos, Alleyn’s Oakfield is exceptionally well‑placed for continued growth and strategic development within the wider Alleyn’s group.
We are seeking a dynamic, inspiring leader who brings clarity of vision, authenticity and energy. The next Head will lead the strategic development and day‑to‑day operations of the school, and champion excellence in teaching, learning and pastoral care, modelling Alleyn’s ROCCK values and fostering a culture in which children feel known, supported, stretched and celebrated. They will provide clear, ambitious leadership aligned with the overarching aims of the Alleyn’s School Group, working closely with senior colleagues to enhance alignment, maintain high standards and ensure that Alleyn’s Oakfield thrives within a rapidly evolving educational landscape. They will be a visible, trusted and emotionally intelligent presence, able to communicate with warmth while cultivating a collaborative, joyful environment for staff and pupils alike. This is a rare opportunity to lead a flourishing, ambitious school full of potential. With beautiful surroundings, excellent transport links into central London and the strength and shared purpose of the wider Alleyn’s group, Alleyn’s Oakfield offers an exceptional platform for an inspiring leader to shape a school that is both deeply rooted and confidently future‑facing.
No specific qualifications are listed in the provided description; the role requires strategic leadership, clear vision, emotional intelligence, and the ability to lead teaching, learning and pastoral care in alignment with the ROCCK values of Alleyn’s.
To apply, please submit a completed application form, CV and a covering letter by 9.00am GMT Monday 2 March online at: https://www.odgers.com/95362, where you can also download the candidate brief.
Contact for an initial discussion:
- Ruth Lewis: +44 (0) 20 7529 3959 ruth.lewis@odgers.com
- Isabel Howard: +44 (0) 20 7529 3925 isabel.howard@odgers.com
Alleyn’s Oakfield is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Head (Alleyn\'s Oakfield) employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head (Alleyn\'s Oakfield)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Alleyn's Oakfield and ask about their experiences. This insider info can give us a leg up in understanding the school's culture and values, which is key for making a great impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by aligning your vision with the school's ROCCK values. Think about how your leadership style can foster a joyful and collaborative environment. We want to show that we’re not just a fit, but the perfect match for their ambitious goals!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. This will help us communicate our passion and clarity of vision more effectively when it’s time to shine in front of the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email expressing our appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. It shows we’re genuinely interested and reinforces our enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head (Alleyn\'s Oakfield)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what Alleyn’s Oakfield is all about. Dive into our values and ethos, and think about how your vision aligns with ours. This will help you craft an application that truly resonates with us.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your personality and leadership style while addressing the specific qualities we’re looking for. Show us how you embody the ROCCK values and how you can lead our school into the future.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your CV, highlight experiences that demonstrate your strategic leadership and emotional intelligence. We want to see examples of how you've successfully led teams and fostered a supportive environment in previous roles.
Apply Online: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials and ensures everything is in one place. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready for the modern educational landscape!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Alleyn’s ROCCK values. Think about how these values resonate with your own leadership style and experiences. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've embodied similar values in your previous roles.
✨Show Your Vision
As a candidate for Head of Alleyn’s Oakfield, it’s crucial to articulate your vision for the school. Prepare to discuss your ideas on strategic development and how you plan to enhance teaching and pastoral care. Make sure your vision aligns with the school's commitment to nurturing a joyful and supportive environment.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Being emotionally intelligent is key for this role. Think about past situations where you've successfully navigated challenges with empathy and understanding. Be prepared to discuss how you would foster a collaborative atmosphere among staff and pupils, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that show your genuine interest in the school’s future and its community. Ask about their current initiatives or how they envision the role evolving. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
