Senior Deputy Head

Woldingham seeks an outstanding Senior Deputy Head to take up a new and important role, co-ordinating the development of all aspects of the educational provision of the School. Reporting to the Head, the Senior Deputy Head will lead the School’s academic management team and will also line manage a talented group of Deputy and Assistant Heads. They will deputise for the Head when required.

The successful candidate will combine a track record of highly successful school leadership experience with strong academic and emotional intelligence. They will have the ability to work collaboratively in such a way as to inspire students, staff and parents, as well as command their respect. They will be ready for the next step of their school leadership career and will most likely aspire to headship in due course.

We warmly invite applications from candidates who are ambitious to share their experience and enthusiasm for education, whatever their background. Woldingham is a Roman Catholic School, therefore it is desirable that the postholder is Roman Catholic or, at least, has a sympathy with the School’s Catholic ethos and values.

A competitive package, reflecting the seniority of the role and experience of the candidate is available. Close to London yet in an outstandingly beautiful rural setting, Woldingham is a happy and successful Catholic boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 and is firmly established as one of the top girls’ independent schools in the UK, outperforming many schools that are far more selective in their admissions process. Central to this achievement is Woldingham’s academic enrichment and extra-curricular programmes, pastoral support and caring community.

We are committed to an exciting future that is underpinned by fresh ideas, an innovative spirit and state-of-the-art facilities. Staff are welcome to use our range of outstanding facilities including the gym, squash and tennis courts and the swimming pool. Our Staffroom Committee organises regular social events, and individual members of staff have even organised yoga classes and reflexology on site. All staff receive free lunches and refreshments.

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to appoint before the closing date. Potential applicants who would like to find out more about this exceptional opportunity are invited to contact one of the RSAcademics team working on this project for a confidential conversation.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Thursday 22 January 2026 at 10.00am (UK time). Applications should be made electronically to RSAcademics. To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now” and upload your documents according to the instructions provided.

You should submit the following (both in PDF format):

• a completed application form
• a covering letter addressed to Mrs Sue Baillie, Head. The letter should explain your reasons for applying.

If you have any questions about uploading your application documents, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations (Leadership Appointments). Please note that RSAcademics’ offices are closed from lunchtime on Christmas Eve until 9.00am on Friday 2nd January.

The school is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. It seeks to attract and retain the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and the local community. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, and the receipt of two satisfactory references, including one from your current employer.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.