Deputy Head

Independent Schools Association (ISA); England; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-related bonus

Free school lunches

Staff discount

Job summary

Waverley Prep School & Nursery is seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our Senior Management Team from September 2027, working closely with the incoming Headteacher to drive teaching excellence, pupil wellbeing and staff development. The role includes approximately 50% teaching alongside leadership responsibilities, with opportunities to shape the school's future and culture.

The successful candidate will be an approachable, inspiring and innovative leader who shares our values of

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in a school setting.
• Strong teaching and pedagogy knowledge.
• Commitment to staff development and wellbeing.
• Experience with safeguarding and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Lead school improvement and teaching excellence in partnership with the Headteacher.
• Oversee pupil wellbeing and staff development across the school.
• Shape strategic direction and drive the next chapter of development.
• Collaborate with families to build strong partnerships and trust.
• Balance leadership duties with approximately 50% teaching commitments.

Skills

Leadership

Teaching

Staff development

Pastoral care

Collaboration

Job description

Waverley Prep School and Nursery is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced teacher or school leader to join its Senior Management Team as Deputy Headteacher from September 2027. The role involves working closely with the new Headteacher to improve teaching, support staff development, oversee pupil wellbeing and help shape the school's future. Approximately 50% of the role will involve teaching, alongside leadership responsibilities. The school is seeking someone who is approachable, inspiring, innovative and passionate about helping children succeed.

Description

Deputy Headteacher - Waverley Prep School & Nursery

Waverley Prep School & Nursery is seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our Senior Management Team and play a central role in the next chapter of our school's development.

Following the promotion of our current Deputy Head to Headteacher from September 2027, this is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding teacher and aspiring or experienced leader to make a significant impact within a successful and growing school.

Working in close partnership with the incoming Headteacher, you will help shape our strategic direction, drive school improvement and champion excellence in teaching and learning, pastoral care and staff development. With a teaching commitment of approximately 50%, you will be a visible and approachable leader who inspires colleagues, builds strong relationships with families and ensures every child feels known, valued and encouraged to flourish.

At Waverley, we believe that exceptional education begins with knowing every child. Our warm, nurturing community combines high expectations with a commitment to developing confident, compassionate and curious learners. We are looking for a leader who shares these values, brings energy and fresh thinking, and is excited by the opportunity to influence the future of our school.

We offer a supportive professional community, the opportunity to shape school strategy and the chance to make a meaningful and lasting difference to pupils, staff and families.

Salary:

Very competitive, with a significant performance relates bonus, free school lunches and a staff discount if your children attend the school or nursery.

Start date

September 2027

Closing date

09:00hrs, Wednesday 18th November 2026

Interviews:

Initial interviews will take place week commencing 23rd November 2026.

Waverley Prep School & Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to appropriate safeguarding and pre-employment checks. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.