Deputy Headteacher

Teaching Vacancies; Hadleigh; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading local authority primary school in Hadleigh is seeking a dedicated Deputy Headteacher. The role involves significant leadership responsibilities, including championing safeguarding, managing assessment data, and supporting staff development. The ideal candidate should have proven leadership experience, expertise in safeguarding, and a commitment to inclusive education. This position promises a vibrant work environment and strong support for professional development within a large school infrastructure.

Benefits

Continuing Professional Development opportunities

Supportive staff environment

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Extensive leadership experience in a primary school.
• Expertise in safeguarding as a Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Strong data analysis and assessment skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead safeguarding and welfare as Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Manage assessment and data for pupil progress.
• Support Early Career Teachers as Induction Tutor.

Skills

Leadership experience

Data analysis

Safeguarding expertise

Behaviour management

Communication skills

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

First Aid qualification

Job description

What skills and experience we're looking for

We are seeking an inspiring, dedicated Deputy Headteacher to join Hadleigh Community Primary School’s leadership team. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape the future of our school, champion safeguarding, and support the continuous improvement of teaching and learning. If you are passionate about leading with integrity, fostering inclusive education, and driving school-wide excellence, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (primary), ensuring the safety and welfare of all pupils
• Lead assessment and data management, including data analysis, target setting, and pupil progress reviews
• Line manage Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to maximise support for pupils
• Organise staff absence cover efficiently and effectively
• Act as the Induction Tutor for Early Career Teachers (ECTs), supporting their development and integration
• Provide leadership in behaviour support and response for all pupils
• Oversee and be the main point of contact for wrap‑around care provision
• Monitor and improve teaching standards across the school
• Deputise for the Headteacher during their absence
• Prepare and present reports to governors and other stakeholders as required
• Lead on first aid; respond to incidents, including conducting relevant risk assessments
• Undertake one day of teaching per week, preferably in EYFS or Key Stage 1

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive proven leadership experience within a large primary school setting
• Expertise and experience in leading safeguarding and child protection as a Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Strong skills in data analysis, assessment, and target setting
• Experience managing and supporting staff, including LSAs and ECTs
• Competence, knowledge and curiosity in behaviour management strategies
• Supporting the provision and oversight of our wrap‑around care
• Ability to monitor teaching quality and lead professional development initiatives
• First aid qualification or willingness to train as the school’s first aid lead
• Commitment to teaching, particularly in EYFS or KS1

Desirable Qualities

• Inspirational leadership with a collaborative and approachable style
• Passionate about creating an inclusive, supportive, and nurturing school culture
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Resilient, adaptable, and solution‑focused
• Enthusiastic about continuous professional development and innovation in education

What the school offers its staff

Hadleigh Community Primary School is a thriving, three‑form entry local authority primary school located in Suffolk. Much larger than the average primary school, we cater to 587 motivated learners. Our school is characterised by a warm, inclusive, and caring ethos where children flourish academically and personally. We pride ourselves on creating a happy and vibrant environment and we’re proud to be able to offer a range of high‑quality experiences for our pupils. Our supportive staff team, engaged governing body, and commitment to professional development make Hadleigh Community Primary School a fantastic place to work and learn.

Why Choose Hadleigh Community Primary School?

• Work in a happy, friendly, and vibrant primary school with 587 motivated learners whose behaviour is exemplary
• Join a lively and supportive staff team who share a commitment to excellence and inclusion
• Thrive in an inclusive and caring ethos that values every child and staff member
• Benefit from strong support from teaching staff and subject leaders in lesson planning
• Collaborate with an engaged and supportive governing body
• Access a wide range of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities to support your career growth
• Enjoy membership of a national Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support

Further details about the role

We would welcome visits to our school and this is strongly encouraged.

For an informal discussion only, please contact Jo Deaves, Head Teacher on [phone].

Interviews scheduled for 22nd January 2026

Commitment to safeguarding

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. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. It is also subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and children’s barred list check. Suffolk County Council – welcoming diversity.