Deputy Headteacher

Acorn Care and Education; Reading; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive education organization in Reading is seeking a Deputy Headteacher to lead curriculum development and foster an inclusive school culture. This pivotal role involves supporting the Headteacher, driving high standards in teaching and learning, and empowering staff to positively impact pupils. With a commitment to innovation and growth, the position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of education. Join a dedicated team passionate about creating exceptional learning experiences and making a difference in students' lives.

Benefits

Life Assurance

Pension scheme

Mental health support services

Discount options

Cycle to Work Scheme

Electric Car Purchase Scheme

Family Growth Support

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in an educational setting.
• Capability to drive high standards in teaching and learning.
• Experience in developing and implementing school improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across curriculum and personal development.
• Support the Headteacher in fostering a high-performing school culture.
• Inspire and develop staff to deliver excellence in education.

Skills

Inspirational leadership

Outstanding classroom experience

Strong communication

Creative thinking

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

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 Title: Deputy Headteacher

Location: Groveside School, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 7AY

Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum plus £1,000 Welcome Bonus**

Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday

Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only

Start: February 2026

UK Applicants only — this role does not offer sponsorship

We are seeking an experienced, inspiring Deputy Headteacher to join our amazing team at Groveside School and play a pivotal role in shaping an ambitious, inclusive, and high-performing school culture.

About the Role

As Deputy Headteacher, you will provide strategic leadership across curriculum, creativity, and personal development. You will support the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team in driving high standards of teaching, learning, behaviour, and staff development, while promoting trauma-informed and restorative approaches across the school.

You will play a key role in shaping the school’s curriculum and personal development offer, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and behaviour are consistently achieved. You will drive strategic initiatives and school improvement plans, fostering a culture of collaboration, ambition, and inclusion. By building strong, positive relationships with pupils, families, and staff, you will create an environment where everyone can thrive.

You will also inspire, coach, and develop staff, empowering them to deliver excellence and make a lasting impact on the lives of every pupil.

Who We’re Looking For

• Inspirational school leader with a clear vision for curriculum and pupil outcomes
• Qualified Teacher (QTS) with outstanding classroom experience
• Resilient, approachable leader who thrives in a challenging environment
• Creative thinker who brings learning to life for pupils
• Strong communicator who can motivate and influence others
• Professional who models positive behaviour, integrity, and a sense of humour

What We Offer

• A supportive, collaborative, and values-driven school culture
• High-quality induction and ongoing professional development
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on pupils’ lives
• Clear opportunities for career progression
• To work in a school that is passionate about all achievement for all pupils.
• To work with fantastic pupils who enjoy a dynamic and engaging curriculum.
• To begin your journey with a strong induction programme tailored to your experience and needs.
• To engage collaboratively within a very supportive environment where professional development is an essential aspect of our daily practice.
• To develop your career.
• To be committed to creating exceptional pupil experiences and learning for all.

Benefits

Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:

• 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.

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

*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

**Welcome Bonus is payable as one payment of £500 after completion of month three (3) and one further payment of £500 upon completion of your final probation period - month six (6) or later. Terms and Conditions Apply