Deputy Head (Academic) in London

Wetherby Preparatory School is an independent boys’ preparatory school (ages 7 – 13) of 260 boys set in the dynamic area of Marylebone in London. It prepares its pupils for many of the top day and boarding senior schools in the country and therefore works at a level significantly above National Curriculum expectations. The Deputy Head (Academic) will join the school from January 2027 to provide strategic leadership for the academic life of the school, ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning and assessment. They will drive the school’s academic strategy, oversee curriculum development, and contribute to the broader leadership and continuous improvement of Wetherby Preparatory School.

Key Responsibilities

• Whole‑school responsibility for academic strategy, curriculum oversight and assessment
• Lead coordination of Common Entrance (CE), Pre‑Test, and Scholarship examinations
• Line‑manage Heads of Department and oversee performance management processes
• Develop and implement clear progression between Pre‑Prep and Prep, working closely with the Head of Pre‑Prep
• Plan and deliver the transition as the school moves from all‑boys to co‑educational intake in September 2027 and opens a Reception class in September 2026, building a Pre‑Prep
• Use a strong, data‑informed approach to pupil tracking and intervention
• Contribute actively to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and school improvement planning
• Ensure experience in prep school settings and understanding of entrance exam requirements inform all aspects of academic leadership
• Demonstrate a commitment to pastoral care and safeguarding across the school
• Maintain excellent communication with parents and external schools, including providing future school guidance for pupils
• Parent meetings regarding future school applications and choices / preparation for specific future schools’ assessments
• Communicating with senior schools regarding scholarship content and assessment processes
• Oversee future schools interview preparation programme (alongside Oppidan)
• Oversee academic scholarship class selection, application process and preparation (alongside DH Academic)

Ideal Candidate

Qualifications and Training

• Degree‑level qualification
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
• Evidence of ongoing professional development, particularly in school leadership and curriculum

Experience

• Successful experience in a prep school environment
• Proven track record of leading academic strategy and curriculum development
• Experience of managing and developing teams, ideally including line management of middle leaders or Heads of Department
• Familiarity with Common Entrance, Pre‑Test, and Scholarship examination processes
• Experience supporting or leading major change initiatives (e.g., transition to co‑education, opening of new phases/classes)

Skills and Knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of current curriculum and assessment frameworks relevant to prep schools
• Strong data analysis skills to inform pupil tracking, intervention, and school improvement
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents and external partners
• Confident leadership and the ability to inspire others to achieve high standards
• Deep understanding of safeguarding, child protection and the statutory requirements for schools

Safeguarding Statement

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre‑employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.