Deputy Headteacher

Contract: Full-time, term time only
Salary: From £45,000 depending on experience
Location: Whitstable, Kent
Start Date: September 2026
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme

Welcome to ISP School Whitstable, an independent specialist provision dedicated to serving children and young people (CYP) in Kent and Medway. We cater to those living with their families, foster parents, or in residential children's homes.

Our mission is to support CYP with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality education through a holistic and tailored approach, complemented by a range of support services for every child.

We are on the lookout for an inspirational leader with SEN experience. Whether you're stepping into senior leadership from a middle leadership role or an experienced Deputy Headteacher seeking a fresh opportunity, we want to hear from you!

At ISP Schools, we value passion, dedication, and innovation, all while embracing our holistic, therapeutic approach. Our ethos promotes positive relationships, self-discipline, self-esteem, and resilience, enabling both staff and children to thrive.

This is an exciting chance to join a well-established organization that works with vulnerable children facing a variety of behavioral and emotional challenges. Our team is welcoming, supportive, and collaborative. Are you ready to be part of a nurturing community that strives for the best outcomes for its children? If so, we could be the perfect place for you to grow your career and make a real impact!

ISP School Whitstable specializes in education for Key Stage 2 children aged 7-11 with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties (SEMH), as well as communication, interaction, cognition, and learning needs.

Our small provision accommodates a maximum of 24 children with complex needs, often presenting challenging behaviors. We offer a safe and nurturing environment, supported by well-trained staff. Our therapeutic approach empowers children to develop the skills they need to reach their full potential.

As part of the Polaris Community, we have been passionately improving the lives of children for over 30 years. With over 15 SEN schools across the UK, we work together to provide tailored, diverse, and appropriate education in a safe and supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning, and encourages achievement.

We are seeking a caring and forward-thinking leader to join our team as Deputy Headteacher with curriculum responsibility. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across the school, focusing on inclusion and differentiated instruction for SEND students.
• Assessing, monitoring, recording, and reporting on the learning needs, progress, and achievements of pupils, in collaboration with the SENCo.
• Leading whole-school strategic planning and the continued development of the curriculum.
• Providing curriculum training for staff during training sessions and INSET, valuing your own and others' CPD.
• Click apply now to view the full list of responsibilities on our careers portal.

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with experience in SEND.
• Proven experience in delivering a high-quality curriculum focused on supporting young people with SEND.
• Experience in leading and managing teams with a compassionate and therapeutic approach.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work inclusively with staff, students, and families.
• A proactive and adaptable attitude, capable of developing systems and processes aligned with the school's values and ethos.

• A unique opportunity to shape curriculum development and SEND provision.
• A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
• Professional development opportunities within the Polaris Community.
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs.