Deputy Headteacher

Swinton Fitzwilliam Primary School; Mexborough; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Swinton Fitzwilliam Primary School is seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join its leadership team at an exciting stage of development. Working closely with the Headteacher, you will drive school improvement, foster strong relationships with pupils, families and the wider community, and model high professional standards across staff and students.

The role offers opportunities to shape curriculum, share innovative practice, and contribute to a trusted network of White Woods Primary

Job description

We are looking for an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our school at an exciting point in its journey.

With strong and improving academic outcomes, a committed staff team and deep roots within our local community our foundation is secure. However, we are not content to simply maintain the status quo, we are at an inflection point.

We are ready to think differently, challenge conventions, and innovate.

Our vision is to deliver an education that goes beyond traditional benchmarks ensuring all children access provision that is transformative. We are seeking a Deputy Headteacher who shares this bold ambition.

Working in close partnership with the Headteacher, you will have genuine agency to shape our future.

If you are a high-energy leader who sees possibility where others see limits and are willing to ask, ‘what if we did this differently?’ - this could be the role for you.

We are looking for someone who is;

• Is ambitious and forward-thinking, with the confidence and creativity to lead meaningful change and innovation.
• Places relationships at the heart of leadership, builds trust, understands and connects with children, colleagues, families and our community.
• Develops people, supporting colleagues to grow while also having the courage to challenge, hold to account and maintain the highest expectations.
• Works in genuine partnership with the Headteacher, contributing strategically while bringing your own ideas, perspective and leadership to the role.
• Is curious and restless, unwilling to accept “because that's how we have always done it” as a reason for doing something.
• Understands the value of accountability but is not defined by it, recognising that frameworks matter, while knowing that truly great education cannot be reduced to data, measures or compliance.
• Is driven by strong values and integrity, making decisions because they are right for children, even when those decisions require courage.
• Believes passionately in the potential of every child and every colleague, and is committed to unlocking aspirations and removing barriers to achievement.

We can offer you:

• A strong professional development offer
• The opportunity to work alongside exceptional colleagues
• A vibrant school community
• Access to workplace and wellbeing support services.
• A genuine sense of belonging in a family of schools rooted in strong values.
• A comprehensive induction and support programme.
• A culture where curiosity, collaboration, joy and challenge drive professional growth.

White Woods Primary Academy Trust

Swinton Fitzwilliam Primary School is a proud member of White Woods Primary Academy Trust, a family of 16 primary schools across Rotherham established in 2013.

Our shared vision is simple: every child, regardless of background, is supported to thrive academically and socially as a lifelong learner. We keep the main thing the main thing—excellent teaching and learning—driven by our 4Cs.

• Curious – Sparking wonder, broadening horizons, and inspiring lifelong learning.
• Collaborative – Building strong connections across our family of schools to share expertise.
• Child-centred – Placing the needs, happiness, and growth of every pupil at the heart of every decision.
• Challenging – Combining high expectations with high support so both children and staff achieve their best.

Together, we strive to make every school an exceptional place to learn and work, weaving joy, wellbeing, and professional growth into daily school life. We are also proud to host a successful DfE English Hub, bringing sector-leading expertise in early reading across our Trust and the wider region.

Come and meet us

Interviews to be held on Thursday 22nd October 2026