Deputy Director of Education

The Diocese of Guildford; Guildford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Deputy Director of Education to enhance educational outcomes for 22,000 children across Church schools. This pivotal role involves developing strategies for school effectiveness, fostering governance, and supporting leaders in achieving excellence. Join a dynamic team dedicated to nurturing a Christian character within education while collaborating with various stakeholders. If you are committed to making a significant impact in the educational landscape, this opportunity offers a rewarding career path with a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

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

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years in a senior leadership role in a school or trust.
• Strong commitment to professional development.

Responsibilities

• Drive strategic priorities and lead school improvement initiatives.
• Oversee school support services and guide schools through Ofsted inspections.

Skills

Leadership

School Effectiveness

Communication Skills

Data Handling

Organizational Skills

Knowledge of Safeguarding

Understanding of Church of England Structures

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

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details of the responsibilities of the Deputy Director of Education

• 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.

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
• 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?

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.