At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire as a Deputy Headteacher/SENCO, enhancing teaching and learning for all students.
- Company: St. Paul's School, a nurturing and inclusive community in Chippenham.
- Benefits: Supportive staff, dedicated leadership time, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a fun, friendly environment with enthusiastic children eager to learn.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while fostering creativity and kindness.
- Qualifications: Outstanding classroom practitioner with proven leadership and SENCO experience.
The predicted salary is between 54394 - 60145 £ per year.
At St. Paul's School in Chippenham, we are proud to be an inclusive and supportive community where every child is valued and nurtured. Our school motto, "Making a difference with kindness, creativity, and pride," is at the heart of everything we do. We take a child-centred approach to teaching and learning, ensuring that each pupil’s unique needs are met with compassion, respect, and excellence. We are an OPAL school, committed to outdoor learning and play. In September 2024, we opened our 2-Class Resource Base for children with Complex Needs, focusing on communication and interaction difficulties.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Deputy Headteacher/SENCO at St Paul’s Primary School. The Governors are seeking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic Deputy Headteacher/SENCO to share in the leadership of our happy and successful school; someone who will promote our vision, aims, standards and values. The SENCO part of the role is for our mainstream provision as the Resource Base SEN provision is managed by the Resource Base Manager.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is an outstanding classroom practitioner able to lead by example.
- Has the imagination to develop a creative curriculum that lifts standards whilst enthusing pupils.
- Has proven leadership and management skills with the ability to lead and inspire staff and secure school improvement.
- Is able to play a significant role in raising standards and improving teaching and learning across the school.
- Can lead on SENCO provision and promote the outcomes for children with SEND.
- Can take responsibility for the operational management of all SEND staff.
- Liaise effectively with the Resource Base Manager.
- Can analyse and interpret local and national Data on SEND and evaluate the effectiveness of teaching to guide further improvement.
- Can demonstrate excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.
- Is prepared to go that extra mile and make a difference to the lives and life chances of our children.
- Is able to teach across the primary age range.
In return we can offer:
- Enthusiastic, friendly children who are eager to learn.
- A committed, friendly and supportive staff.
- A supportive Governing Body.
- Opportunities to network with the cluster of local schools.
- Dedicated leadership time.
- A commitment to Professional Development.
- Lots of hard work, fun and laughter.
Visits are welcomed and encouraged - please contact Sheridan Upton, Headteacher to arrange a visit.
To apply, please download the application form and click the ‘apply now’ button below to upload your completed application form and covering letter, referring to the person specification. Please note: CV's will not be considered.
Closing date (and time): Midday on Monday 13th April, 2026
Interview date: Week Commencing 20th April, 2026
Commencement date: September 2026
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check before appointment is confirmed.
Deputy Headteacher and SENCO employer: Wiltshire Council
St. Paul's School in Chippenham is an exceptional employer, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child is valued. With a strong commitment to professional development, dedicated leadership time, and a supportive staff community, we empower our educators to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying a vibrant work culture filled with enthusiasm and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Headteacher and SENCO
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on St. Paul's School. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent initiatives, especially around inclusivity and outdoor learning. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to leadership, SEN provision, and curriculum development. Think about specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills and how you can contribute to raising standards at St. Paul's.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for teaching and making a difference shine through. Talk about your commitment to supporting children with SEND and how you plan to inspire both staff and pupils in your role as Deputy Headteacher/SENCO.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email to the Headteacher. It’s a great way to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Headteacher and SENCO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and inclusivity shine through. We want to see how you embody our motto of 'Making a difference with kindness, creativity, and pride' in your teaching approach.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the role of Deputy Headteacher/SENCO. Highlight your leadership experience and how you can contribute to raising standards and improving teaching and learning at St. Paul’s.
Be Specific About Your Experience:Use concrete examples from your past roles to demonstrate your skills in managing SEND provision and leading staff. We love seeing how you've made a difference in previous positions, so don’t hold back!
Follow Our Application Process:Remember to download the application form from our website and upload it along with your cover letter. We won’t be considering CVs, so make sure you stick to the guidelines to ensure your application is reviewed!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand St. Paul's School's motto and values. Think about how your own teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to kindness, creativity, and inclusivity. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've embodied these values in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Headteacher and SENCO, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare to discuss your past experiences leading teams, managing staff, and driving school improvement. Use concrete examples that highlight your impact on teaching standards and student outcomes.
✨Prepare for SEN Discussions
Given the focus on SEND, brush up on current legislation and best practices in special educational needs. Be prepared to discuss how you would lead SEN provision and support children with complex needs. Share any relevant data analysis experience and how it has informed your teaching strategies.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to outdoor learning and the new Resource Base. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you. Remember, they want to see your enthusiasm!
