Deputy Headteacher (Maternity Cover)

talentED Recruiters; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Deputy Headteacher to cover a maternity leave from February. This role requires strong leadership skills and teaching experience in Years 1/2, with a clear focus on supporting pupils with additional needs. The ideal candidate will have Qualified Teacher Status and senior leadership experience, promoting high standards of education within a nurturing classroom environment.

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience, ideally at Deputy Headteacher level.
• Strong understanding of SEND and inclusive teaching practice.
• Proven track record of raising standards and improving outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality teaching and learning experiences within a Year 1/2 class.
• Support the Headteacher in the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the school.
• Contribute to school improvement planning and evaluation.

Skills

Strong leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Classroom management

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Deputy Headteacher (Maternity Cover)

Contract Type: Fixed-term Maternity Cover

Start Date: February Half Term

Working Pattern: 3 days per week teaching (Year 1/2), 2 days per week Deputy Headteacher release

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Deputy Headteacher to cover a period of maternity leave from February half term. This role combines teaching responsibility within years 1/2 alongside Deputy Headteacher leadership duties.

The successful candidate will be an inspirational practitioner with strong leadership skills, the ability to manage a diverse workload, and a commitment to supporting both staff and pupils. Experience working with children with SEND is essential, as the class includes a number of pupils with additional needs.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching (3 days per week – Year 1/2)

• Deliver high-quality teaching and learning experiences within a Year 1/2 class.
• Differentiate effectively to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND.
• Establish a positive, inclusive, and nurturing classroom environment.
• Work closely with support staff and external professionals to ensure appropriate support is in place for SEND pupils.
• Assess, track, and report on pupil progress in line with school policies.

Deputy Headteacher Duties (2 days per week)

• Support the Headteacher in the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the school.
• Contribute to school improvement planning and evaluation.
• Provide leadership across the curriculum, promoting high standards of teaching and learning.
• Oversee specific areas of responsibility as agreed with the Headteacher.
• Support staff development, performance management, and safeguarding procedures.
• Act as a positive role model for staff, pupils, and the wider school community.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Senior leadership experience, ideally at Deputy Headteacher level.
• Strong understanding of SEND and inclusive teaching practice.
• Proven track record of raising standards and improving outcomes.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.

Desirable:

• Experience teaching mixed-age classes.
• Experience leading whole-school initiatives or key curriculum areas.

Additional Information

This role is suitable for a candidate confident in both classroom teaching and senior leadership. Due to its maternity cover nature, it is a fixed-term position and may not appeal to applicants seeking a permanent Deputy Headteacher role starting mid-year.