Deputy Headteacher for Virtual School

Sefton Council; Greater London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking a proactive leader to drive the Virtual School's strategic direction and safeguard high standards of education for children in care. The role requires managing a fast-paced workload with professionalism and discretion, work independently and with colleagues, and fulfil statutory duties to promote education for cared for children.

This permanent, full-time role involves collaboration at strategic meetings and supporting the Virtual School Headteacher

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic direction of the quality of education for children in care and for execution of statutory duties.
• Support the Virtual School Headteacher in fulfilling statutory duties to promote education for cared-for children.
• Represent the Virtual School Head Teacher at strategic meetings and manage the Virtual School team.

Job description

• Employer: Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council
• Contract: Permanent
• Working Pattern: Full Time
• Hours: 36 hours per week.
• Closing Date: 13/10/2026 at 12:00
• Reference: EE/26/346037

About the Role

This is a pivotal role at the heart of the Virtual School. As the Virtual School evolves and grows, you will play a crucial part in ensuring they are fully supported and organised. You will be responsible for managing a fast-paced workload with professionalism, discretion and confidence.

This role requires someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, can anticipate needs and an organised approach to managing different priorities.

The key responsibilities include:

• To work as part of the Virtual School, taking the lead for the strategic direction of the quality of education delivered to children who are cared for and for execution of statutory duties. All policy and practice developed will be with the aim that children and young people with social care plans achieve in line with their peers.
• Supporting the Virtual School Headteacher in ensuring that Sefton Council fulfils its statutory duties in promoting the education of cared for and previously cared for children.
• Representing the Virtual School Head Teacher at strategic meetings and in management of the Virtual School team.

This role suits someone who is passionate about delivering excellent learning experiences, committed to maintaining high standards, and confident working both independently and collaboratively to support a skilled and safe workforce.

Please see Appendix A (page 10) for a full copy of the Job Description and Person Specification.

The closing date for this vacancy is Tuesday 13 th October at 12 Noon
Provisional interview dates are Thursday 22 nd October

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential.We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.

If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.

Consider registering for Sefton@work

If you’re an unemployed Sefton resident, register with our Sefton@Work service for free support to help you into employment. You may be eligible for extra assistance such as funding for travel, work clothing, or vouchers to make starting your new job easier. Call Sefton@Work on 0151 934 2610 or visit seftonatwork.net to find out more and get started today!