Deputy Head (Pastoral)

WESTONBIRT

Westonbirt is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 18, located in a stunning rural setting in the heart of the Cotswolds. Set in a Grade 1 listed manor house in 210 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds, the school enjoys a reputation for high academic standards within a caring, happy environment. The school benefits from excellent sports facilities which include a Sports Centre, Astroturf pitch, 25m Swimming Pool and 9-hole Golf Course. 

Pupils at Westonbirt benefit from a full and challenging curriculum with expert teaching and wide-ranging extra-curricular activities consistent with the school’s philosophy: Inspiring young minds. They build skills, knowledge and a love of learning that will serve them throughout their education. The setting itself plays an enormous role in the school experience, where students build confidence and can take risks in a safe environment. The school was rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in May 2019. A copy of the report can be viewed here. The school comprises Westonbirt Prep (ages 2-11) and Westonbirt School (ages 11-18). 

In May 2018, Westonbirt joined Wishford Schools, a group of high-performing schools in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Kent. Schools work closely with the group’s senior leaders to define strategy and then enjoy the autonomy to run their schools, while benefiting from the support that membership of the group brings. In addition to strategic input and the sharing of best practice, schools are able to access group expertise in property, legal, HR, finance, compliance and marketing. 

For more information on Westonbirt, please visit: www.westonbirt.org  

THE OPPORTUNITY

Westonbirt School is at an exciting stage in its growth and development. Pupil numbers have grown significantly over the past five years and now stand at approximately 500 in the Senior School in addition to approximately 260 in the Prep School & Nursery. During this period, the Senior School has also completed the transition to full co-education. A site development master plan is underway which has seen major investment in new teaching spaces, boarding accommodation and a sports campus. 

The Headmistress is now seeking to appoint a Deputy Head (Pastoral) to the leadership team of the Senior School. The Deputy Head (Pastoral) is responsible to the Headmistress for all pastoral matters, while also playing a key role in the overall strategic direction and academic vision of the school. The Deputy Head (Pastoral) will deputise for the Headmistress in her absence and will work closely with other senior leaders within the school and the wider group. Working collaboratively with the group’s other schools and the sharing of best practice are strongly encouraged. Further support comes from the group’s governance and education team who visit the school regularly and are available as a listening ear and critical friend. 

Operationally, Westonbirt is divided into Prep and Senior Schools, which work closely together. The senior school has its main intake at Year 7, drawing from local prep and primary schools. Additional intakes join the school at Years 9 and 12. Boarding is at the heart of the school’s history and vision for the future and the resident community form an important part of school life. 

THE ROLE

Applications are invited for the role of Deputy Head (Pastoral). 

The successful candidate will lead on pastoral matters in the Senior School, working closely with colleagues as a key member of the school-wide Executive Team. 

The key skills and characteristics sought are: 

• Excellent leadership skills and experience; 
• A clear educational and pastoral vision consistent with the Westonbirt ethos and character; 
• Very high standards and expectations in all areas of educational provision and customer service; 
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and team-building skills; 
• Leadership experience in a boarding & day co-educational senior school environment; and 
• Resilience, adaptability and a good sense of humour. 

Full details of the job description and person specification can be found in the Candidate Pack.