Deputy Headteacher

Deputy Headteacher

The Observatory Special School, Wirral

L13 – L20

The Observatory School is a very special, caring and popular school in a peaceful and green part of the Wirral, teaching boys and girls aged 9-16 with a range of educational needs. Judged Good by Ofsted in 2018, our number on roll has nearly doubled in the past year (and attendance is at record levels), so it looks as though we’re doing something right! We’ve just launched a fully personalised curriculum and learning model, with innovation at its heart; we’re investing in a highly sophisticated new sensory facility, which we believe will be the first of its kind in the local maintained sector; and we were the proud recipients of the TES International award 2019.

As a result of this growth and aspiration, we’re looking to appoint an additional senior leader to the team. You’ll work closely with and support our excellent Headteacher in ensuring that our high standards and exceptional outcomes are maintained and extended. You’ll be joining an innovative and experienced staff group, with a strong collaborative ethos and a shared vision for teaching and learning. The school is notable for its pupil-centred and responsive approach, which allows us to adapt provision to the specific needs of an individual child, and we’ll expect you to share this absolute commitment.

We want to hear from ambitious, capable and well-organised candidates who are looking to accelerate their leadership journey. You’ll take responsibility for the smooth day-to-day management of the school, including observing lessons, overseeing the timetable, managing any staffing issues (including training), and liaising with parents; but you’ll also play an important role in longer-term strategic planning, including setting and monitoring budgets and reporting to the governing body. Calm, personally credible and resilient, strong candidates will show a good track record of leadership in high-performing settings, and you must have an impressive grasp of ‘what good looks like’ in special education.

It’s a perfect role in which to consolidate the full set of leadership competencies and skills, as part of the small senior team in a financially strong and in-demand school. And while we make no apology for having high expectations, you’ll benefit hugely from the professional guidance and support of a well-regarded and successful Headteacher.

Please visit www.joinobservatory.co.uk to find out more.

To arrange an informal conversation with our retained consultants David Gooda or Raymond Kelly at Navigate NDC, please call 01625 800862 or email observatory@navigategroup.co.uk

Closing date: 10am, 21st October 2019.