Head of Boarding

Dean Close Foundation; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Dean Close Foundation seeks an inspiring Head of Boarding to lead and develop a thriving boarding community where pupils flourish within a nurturing, family‑oriented environment underpinned by a strong Christian ethos.

The successful candidate will work with the Deputy Head to provide strategic leadership, outstanding pastoral care, and robust operational oversight across our boarding provision in a UK prep setting. They will also serve as Boarding House Parent for Fortfield House.

Qualifications

• Teaching qualification and safeguarding training.
• Experience in UK prep boarding environment.
• Strong understanding of boarding regulations and best practice.
• Ability to act as Boarding House Parent.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for boarding across the foundation.
• Oversee outstanding pastoral care and welfare for boarders.
• Coordinate operational oversight of all boarding houses.
• Collaborate with the Head of Wellbeing and Senior Leadership Team.
• Ensure safeguarding standards and regulatory compliance across the provision.

Skills

Teaching qualification

Pastoral care

Leadership

Safeguarding knowledge

Education

UK prep boarding experience

Job description

The Dean Close Foundation are looking to appoint an inspiring, enthusiastic and highly organised professional to become our next Head of Boarding. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and develop a thriving boarding community where pupils flourish within a nurturing, family-oriented environment underpinned by a strong Christian ethos.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Boarding will work closely with the Head of Wellbeing (Deputy Head) to provide strategic leadership, outstanding pastoral care, and operational oversight across our boarding provision.

The successful candidate would be passionate about boarding education and committed to delivery outstanding pastoral care for our Prep school. Previous experience working within a UK prep boarding environment is essential for this role.

The ideal candidate will hold a teaching qualification, have safeguarding training, and possess a strong understanding of boarding regulations and best practice. The successful candidates would also become the Boarding House Parent for our Fortfield Boarding House.

As part of the Dean Close Foundation, you would be joining an organisation driven by Christian values, that encourages all members of our community to live out our Foundation values of Love, Courage, and Contribution, enabling everyone to flourish. We seek colleagues who demonstrate compassion, collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking in their daily work.

Early applications are encouraged, and applicants may be invited to interview prior to the closing date. We encourage any applicants with the correct competencies to apply and if reasonable adjustments are needed to apply or undertake the role, please let us know.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed before the closing date. We will request references for all shortlisted candidates prior to interview.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.