Deputy Director of Education

DIOCESE OF GUILDFORD; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Deputy Director of Education to enhance school effectiveness and governance across its Church schools. This pivotal role involves collaborating with various stakeholders to drive educational excellence and support school leaders. You will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of pupils. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and the chance to champion Christian values in education. If you're ready to lead and inspire, this is the role for you!

Benefits

Competitive salary within the Charity Sector

Hybrid working

10% non-contributory pension

Life assurance provision of 3x annual salary

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Learning and development opportunities

Charity Worker discounts

Free parking at office

Qualifications

• University Degree and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) required.
• Minimum of 3 years in a senior leadership role in education.

Responsibilities

• Drive strategic priorities and lead school improvement initiatives.
• Oversee training programs and support schools through inspections.

Skills

Communication Skills

Data Handling

Organizational Skills

Understanding of Government Initiatives

Knowledge of Safeguarding

Education

University Degree

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Are you passionate about education and improving outcomes for 22,000 children who attend our Church schools across the Diocese?

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to develop your career and become a system leader with a regional and national profile. You will join an experienced team of education officers and consultants who are committed to the flourishing of our Church schools.

As our Deputy Director of Education (DDE), you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in our Church schools. Working closely with the Director of Education, you will develop and implement strategies to enhance school effectiveness, promote strong governance, and support school leaders in achieving the best outcomes for their pupils.

The Diocesan Board of Education (DBE) oversees 83 Church of England schools and 6 academy trusts across the Diocese of Guildford. We strive to support our schools provide the highest quality education, while nurturing their Christian character.

Some of the key responsibilities of the role:

• Leadership: Drive the DBE’s strategic priorities, develop school effectiveness policies, and lead our school improvement initiatives.
• School Effectiveness: Oversee our school support services, create impactful training programs, and support and guide schools through Ofsted inspections.
• Development: Develop and maintain a programme of training and professional development to support school leaders and governors including the coordination of the framework for headteacher appraisal
• Partnerships: Collaborate with Local Authorities, Multi-Academy Trusts, and other stakeholders to champion Church school performance.
• Internal Collaboration: Work closely with the School Services Manager and DBE officers, attend key meetings, and represent the DBE on local and national forums

What we are looking for from you:

• Qualifications: You should have a University Degree and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for schools in England. A strong track record and commitment to professional development is essential
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in a senior leadership role in a school or trust , local authority adviser or education consultant.
• Skills & Knowledge: Excellent communication skills, strong data handling, organisational prowess, and a solid understanding of government initiatives impacting schools. Knowledge of safeguarding and Church of England school structures is desirable.
• Personal Attributes: A commitment to Christian character of our Church schools and the Church of England’s vision for education is essential. A UK driving licence with access to a vehicle as travel across the Diocese is required, and a willingness to work occasional evenings.

Why join us?

This is your chance to make a real difference in the lives of pupils and school leaders across the Diocese of Guildford. You will be part of a supportive, dynamic team that values collaboration, innovation, and the promotion of Christian values in education.

Benefits of the role include:

• Competitive salary within the Charity Sector
• Hybrid working
• A 10% non-contributory pension
• Life assurance provision of 3x annual salary
• 25 days annual leave per year, plus bank holidays, rising to 26 days after 1 years’ service
• An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Learning and development opportunities
• Access to Charity Worker discounts
• Attractive open-plan office at Church House Guildford, Stag Hill with free parking.

Ready to Apply?

Follow the links to our diocesan website to submit your CV along with a detailed supporting statement (cover letter) outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the person specification as detailed in the job description. Applications without a cover letter cannot be considered.

We will shortlist and interview on a rolling basis as applications are received and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.

The Diocese of Guildford take our responsibility for the safeguarding of children and adults seriously. Our recruitment processes reflect this commitment.

We believe that diversity is a strength. We actively welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, particularly those who identify as female, younger, of a UK Minority Ethnic/Global Majority Heritage, or disabled, as it is essential that we reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Please note that if you are shortlisted and are unable to attend on the interview date it may not be possible to offer you an alternative date.