Deputy Headteacher

Acorn Care and Education; Chorley; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education provider in Chorley is seeking a Deputy Headteacher to shape the educational experience of young people with complex needs. This pivotal role involves strategic planning, leading curriculum development, and fostering a culture of inclusion. The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership qualities and a commitment to promoting high educational standards. Join us to make a significant impact on the lives of pupils and to ensure they thrive in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Life Assurance

Pension scheme

Mental health support services

Health checks

Discount options

Cycle to Work Schemes

Electric Car Purchase Scheme

Critical illness cover

Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

Qualifications

• A clear vision for teaching and curriculum development.
• Experience in leading and managing teams effectively.
• Commitment to inclusive education and high pupil outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver the school's vision for high-quality education.
• Lead curriculum development to meet pupil needs.
• Ensure adherence to safeguarding standards.

Skills

Strategic planning

Leadership

Teaching

Emotional intelligence

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Job description

How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four? At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG.

Job Details

• Job Title: Deputy Headteacher
• Location: Waterloo Lodge School, Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 7AX
• Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum depending on experience (not pro rata)
• Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday–Friday | 08:30–16:30
• Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
• Start: January 2026
• UK applicants only – this role does not offer sponsorship.

Join Our Team and Help Keep Our School Running Smoothly

Waterloo Lodge School is seeking an ambitious and dedicated Deputy Headteacher who is inspired by the opportunity to shape the life chances of young people with complex needs. This is a pivotal leadership role within our specialist provision, working closely with the Headteacher to drive high standards, nurture an inclusive culture, and deliver an exceptional educational experience for every pupil.

About the Role

As Deputy Headteacher, you will be central to strategic planning, school improvement, teaching and learning, safeguarding and staff development. You will be a visible, trusted leader who models integrity, calm and resilience—someone who inspires colleagues, champions high expectations, and builds meaningful relationships with students and families.

Waterloo Lodge School is a close-knit, dedicated community where every learner matters. Our pupils require understanding, structure and personalised support to achieve their potential. We are looking for a leader who values connection, celebrates individuality and remains relentlessly committed to helping young people succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver our whole-school vision for high-quality education.
• Lead curriculum development, ensuring it is broad, balanced and responsive to pupil needs.
• Promote evidence-based, innovative teaching practice across the school.
• Evaluate and raise the quality of teaching, learning and outcomes.
• Oversee assessment, tracking and reporting systems to close attainment gaps.
• Lead positive behaviour support and embed trauma-informed approaches.
• Ensure adherence to safeguarding standards, SEND legislation and regulatory frameworks.
• Support recruitment, training and performance management, including coaching and CPD.
• Build strong relationships with families, carers, external agencies and clinical teams.
• Deputise for the Headteacher and represent the school when required.

Who We’re Looking For

• Has a clear vision for teaching, learning, curriculum and whole-school improvement.
• Leads with integrity, confidence and emotional intelligence.
• Works collaboratively and builds strong, positive relationships across teams.
• Motivates and develops staff with clarity, empathy and high expectations.
• Champions inclusive education and strives for exceptional pupil outcomes.
• Brings strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Can innovate, evaluate and drive sustained improvement.

If you’re energetic, strategic and ready to influence meaningful change — this is your opportunity to make your mark.

Benefits

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first‑class mental health support services and physical health checks
• A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
• 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
• Cycle to Work Schemes
• Electric Car Purchase Scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.

You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.