Head of Prep

Hoe Bridge School; Old Woking; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school in Old Woking is seeking a dynamic Head of Prep to join at a pivotal stage of development. The successful leader will inspire staff and students, ensuring that academic and social needs are met. This position is an excellent opportunity for a Deputy Head or senior leader looking to make a significant impact in educational leadership with a focus on tradition and innovation.

Qualifications

• Exceptional educational leadership skills.
• Vision, imagination, and clarity of purpose for school development.

Responsibilities

• Provide inspiring and forward-thinking leadership across the Prep School.
• Support and develop staff to meet every pupil's needs.
• Motivate colleagues and unite the Prep community.
• Manage operational responsibilities effectively.
• Use strong communication skills to shape the school's future.

Job description

Start date: September 2026

Suitable for NQTs: No

Hoe Bridge is a thriving independent school for girls and boys aged two to 16. The school is delighted to have embarked on a transformative three-year period of growth with the introduction of its Senior School, establishing itself as the leading independent through-school in Woking and the surrounding areas.

This is a unique opportunity for an exceptional educational leader to join Hoe Bridge at a pivotal stage in its development. The Head of Prep will play a central role in shaping the future of the Prep School, inspiring pupils and staff to achieve their full potential, and leading a vibrant community that values tradition, innovation, and the holistic development of every child. This role represents an outstanding prospect for a Deputy Head or senior leader seeking their first Headship, offering the chance to make a lasting, positive impact on a school renowned for fostering curiosity, confidence, and character. The successful candidate will bring vision, imagination, and clarity of purpose, ensuring Hoe Bridge continues to innovate while maintaining its position as a leading independent school.

Working closely with the Executive Headmaster, the Head of Prep will provide inspiring and forward-thinking leadership, cultivating a culture of excellence across the Prep School. They will support and develop staff, ensuring that every pupil's academic, pastoral, and social needs are met to the highest standard.

Responsibilities

• Provide inspiring and forward-thinking leadership, cultivating a culture of excellence across the Prep School.
• Support and develop staff, ensuring that every pupil's academic, pastoral, and social needs are met to the highest standard.
• Motivate colleagues and unite the Prep community around a shared sense of purpose.
• Influence all aspects of school life, from the delivery of outstanding teaching and learning to the enhancement of co‑curricular programmes and the evolution of the school's culture.
• Manage complex operational responsibilities effectively, and drive meaningful change with confidence.
• Use strong communication skills, creativity, and collaborative thinking to shape the school's future and sustain its reputation.

Hoe Bridge offers an inspiring working environment with excellent conditions, a lively and supportive atmosphere, and a strong sense of community. Staff are encouraged and expected to achieve the highest standards in their professional practice and conduct, making it an exceptional place to continue a career in education.

Full details of the role are available on the school website: https://www.hoebridgeschool.co.uk/about/staff-vacancies

Closing date for applications: 9am, Friday 5 December 2025

First round interviews to take place on: Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 December 2025

Second round interviews to take place on: Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 December 2025

Hoe Bridge School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Any person offered a position will be required to complete an enhanced DBS disclosure.