Deputy Head Academic | Full-time, Permanent | Closing Date: Tuesday 24th February 2026

The Leys; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Cambridge is seeking a dynamic leader to join its Senior Management Team, starting September 2026. The successful candidate will take charge of the academic provision, inspiring colleagues and fostering a high-achieving environment for pupils. The role requires exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to enhancing pupil outcomes, in line with our inclusive educational philosophy. Interested applicants should submit their application by 24 February 2026.

Qualifications

• Passion for ensuring high pupil outcomes.
• Ability to lead change effectively.
• Experience in managing academic provisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the School’s academic provision.
• Inspire and empower colleagues.
• Manage a diverse breadth of work.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Job description

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly-qualified, talented and dynamic leader to join our Senior Management Team from September 2026.

The successful candidate will have a passion for ensuring the highest pupil outcomes, and the ability to lead change. You will possess the leadership, communication and interpersonal skills necessary to inspire and empower colleagues, and the organisational skills to manage the breadth of work that this role encompasses. You will be responsible for all aspects of the School’s academic provision, building on the current outstanding provision and outcomes for pupils. Applications are welcome from colleagues across all teaching disciplines.

The Leys is an inclusive and inspiring co-educational boarding and day school offering an incredible learning environment and pupil experience in Cambridge. Putting pupils at the heart of everything we do, our shared values create a strong, caring, and cohesive community. The successful candidate will be joining a dedicated, successful, and welcoming team of teaching and business professionals, committed to working together to combine their skills, experience, and insights to deliver an excellent education to our pupils.

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. Before appointment to any role in the school, checks including an Enhanced DBS Check and workplace references will be undertaken in accordance with current statutory guidance. Evidence of eligibility to work in the UK is required. A one year probationary period will also apply.

The Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes and values diversity and celebrates the diverse voice of our community.

For further details or an informal conversation about the role, please call 01223 508955 or email [emailprotected]

If you are interested in applying, please submit a completed application form including one page covering letter addressed to The Head, The Recruitment Team, The Leys School, Cambridge, CB2 7AD ( [emailprotected] ) by 09.00 am on 24 February 2026.

Interviews for this role are anticipated to be held on 3 – 4 March 2026.

This role has the opportunity for regular contact with pupils and therefore is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.