Deputy Headteacher

What skills and experience we're looking for

We are seeking an inspirational and forward-thinking Deputy Headteacher to join our maintained nursery school. With a strong focus on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), people development and strategic leadership, you will play a key role in shaping our vision and ensuring exceptional outcomes for all children.

About the role:

As Deputy Headteacher, you will work closely with the Headteacher to provide strategic and operational leadership across the school. You will:

• Work in partnership with the Headteacher to deliver the school’s vision, contribute to self‑evaluation and improvement planning, and deputise when required
• Play a pivotal role in leading EDI and SEND practice, ensuring children facing barriers to learning receive timely, effective support
• Support the development of an ambitious, inclusive early years curriculum and assessment approach, grounded in research and best practice
• Share responsibility for people management, leading and supporting staff development, wellbeing, and high‑quality professional practice
• Contribute to a safe, nurturing and aspirational environment in which children, families and staff can thrive

What we are looking for:

We are seeking a leader who brings warmth, clarity and ambition, and who shares our commitment to inclusive early years education. You will have:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), with substantial early years leadership experience
• A strong understanding of child development, the EYFS, and inclusive pedagogy, including supporting children with SEND
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate and work collaboratively
• A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
• A commitment to working in partnership with staff, parents and carers, governors and the wider community

What the school offers its staff

In return, we can offer –

• A supportive and friendly staff team passionate about Early Years education
• A purpose-built environment designed for young children with a wonderful garden
• A child centered, inclusive setting with an exciting and challenging curriculum
• A diverse community with children who are excited about learning
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• A comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme

Further details about the role

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed by prior arrangement; please contact Elinor Kane to arrange a time ([email protected]).

Shortlisting will take place w/c 27th April and shortlisted candidates will be informed by close of business on Friday 1st May 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a short written task on strategic priorities for inclusion and the quality of education, and present a brief summary of their submission at interview. Full guidance will be provided in the invitation to interview.

Interviews will take place w/c 11th May 2026.

Commitment to safeguarding

Pound Park Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and expects all staff to share this commitment. All appointments will be conditional to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure being obtained via the Disclosure and Barring Service. In line with KCSIE guidance, as part of the shortlisting process, we reserves the right to conduct an online search on shortlisted candidates as part of our due diligence and to share any pertinent information found concerning a candidate's suitability to work with children with the panel to be discussed at interview stage