Deputy Head (Maternity Cover)

Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School is seeking an exceptional Interim Deputy Head to work alongside the Head during a period of maternity cover. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced and compassionate leader to play a pivotal role in the strategic leadership and day-to-day running of a thriving pre-prep school within the Dean Close Foundation.

The successful candidate will be an outstanding classroom practitioner with a strong commitment to safeguarding, pastoral care and academic excellence. As Interim Deputy Head, you will help ensure continuity, stability and ambition, supporting staff, pupils and families while upholding the school’s Christian ethos and core values of love, courage and contribution.

This role combines senior leadership responsibility with hands-on teaching, offering the chance to make a meaningful impact both in and beyond the classroom. You will be a visible, approachable presence, confident in leading others, managing daily operations and working collaboratively to ensure every child flourishes academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

If you are an inspiring leader who brings clarity, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The Dean Close Foundation are a values-driven organisation that fosters love, courage, and contribution. You’ll be part of a supportive team that encourages creativity, compassion, and collaboration.

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.

Internal applicants

Please contact the Recruitment Team requesting the internal candidate application form link before starting your application.