We are seeking an outstanding Deputy Head to help lead our next stage of development. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious, talented leader eager to develop their career and play a significant role in shaping our future direction.

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Description

Small School. Big Expectations.

At Clarendon Cottage Preparatory School we believe children thrive when they are known, valued and inspired. We are a small independent preparatory school for children aged 2–11 with a genuine family atmosphere and all the warmth of a traditional village school. Relationships are at the heart of all we do and our close-knit community ensures every child feels safe, happy and at home. We combine traditional values with a modern, creative and ambitious curriculum designed to enable every child to flourish.

Established in 1991, Clarendon Cottage has built an excellent reputation for nurturing confident, curious and resilient learners. Small class sizes, strong pastoral care and high academic expectations support children to achieve their aspirations and successfully progress to their chosen secondary destinations.

We are seeking an outstanding Deputy Head to work alongside the Head in leading the next stage of our school's development. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and talented leader who is eager to develop their senior leadership career and play a significant role in shaping the future direction of our school.

The successful candidate will help maintain excellent standards, support delivery of the School Development Plan, and contribute strategically and operationally to the continued success of Clarendon Cottage.

Job Description

Strategic Leadership

The Deputy Head will:

• Support the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the School Development Plan and action priorities

• Contribute to school self-evaluation and quality assurance processes

• Help ensure the school consistently meets the Independent School Standards

• Support inspection readiness and evidence gathering

• Assist in maintaining high standards of teaching, learning, behaviour and pupil wellbeing

• Support whole-school policy development, review and implementation

• Help develop and communicate the school vision and strategic priorities

• Use assessment information and monitoring activities to drive improvement

Teaching and Learning

• Lead by example as an excellent classroom practitioner

• Promote ambitious expectations and high-quality teaching

• Support curriculum development across the school

• Foster innovation and creativity alongside academic rigour

• Support monitoring activities including learning walks, work scrutiny and lesson observations

• Coach and mentor colleagues where appropriate

Teaching Commitment

• 2.5 days classroom teaching

• 2.5 days Deputy Head leadership and management allocation

The successful candidate will continue to maintain a strong classroom presence whilst contributing significantly to strategic leadership.

SENDCo Responsibilities

The Deputy Head will act as SENDCo and:

• Oversee identification, monitoring and provision for pupils with additional needs

• Coordinate support plans and interventions

• Liaise with families and external agencies

• Monitor progress and provision

• Ensure statutory responsibilities are met

• Promote an inclusive culture where every child can thrive

SENDCo qualification is desirable; candidates willing to undertake training are welcomed.

DSL Responsibilities

The Deputy Head will undertake the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead and:

• Lead safeguarding practice and culture across the school

• Ensure safeguarding systems remain effective and compliant

• Maintain accurate and secure records

• Deliver safeguarding training and updates

• Support staff understanding of safeguarding responsibilities

• Liaise appropriately with external agencies

• Promote a culture where children feel safe, heard and supported

Candidate Information – Why Join Clarendon Cottage?

Clarendon Cottage is small enough that every member of staff genuinely matters and every child is known as an individual. Our size allows relationships to flourish and gives leaders the opportunity to have a visible impact on the lives of children and families.

You will join a school community characterised by:

• Small classes and strong relationships

• Supportive and committed colleagues

• Happy children who love learning

• A creative and ambitious curriculum

• Strong pastoral care

• Opportunities for leadership growth

• The ability to shape future developments

• A school where children genuinely feel at home

Application Process

To apply, please complete the school application form and provide a supporting statement outlining:

• Your suitability for the role

• Leadership experience and aspirations

• Experience relevant to safeguarding and SEND

• Your educational philosophy and vision

Shortlisted candidates may be required to undertake a lesson observation, leadership task and interview process.

References will be requested prior to interview where appropriate.

Closing Date: 12th June 2026

Interviews: w/c 22nd June 2026

Safeguarding Statement

Clarendon Cottage Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including references from previous employers, an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check including children's barred list information, identity checks, qualification checks and online searches as part of due diligence in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025. This post involves regulated activity with children. We are committed to safer recruitment practices and creating a culture of vigilance where children feel safe, valued and heard.

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.