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 supporting 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 empower CYP with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through a holistic and tailored educational approach. We believe in providing high-quality education complemented by a range of support services tailored to each child’s unique needs.

We are on the lookout for an inspirational leader with a passion for Special Educational Needs (SEN). Whether you’re stepping into senior leadership from a middle leadership role or are an experienced Deputy Headteacher seeking a fresh challenge, we want to hear from you!

At ISP Schools, we pride ourselves on our dedicated and innovative team, all committed to our holistic, therapeutic approach. Our ethos fosters positive relationships, self-discipline, self-esteem, and resilience, enabling both staff and children to thrive.

Are you ready to join a nurturing community that collaborates to achieve the best outcomes for our children? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to grow your career and make a meaningful impact!

ISP School Whitstable specializes in education for Key Stage 2 children aged 7-11 who face social, emotional, and mental health challenges, as well as communication and learning needs. With a maximum of 24 children, we provide a safe and nurturing environment supported by well-trained staff.

As part of the Polaris Community , we have been transforming the lives of children for over 30 years, with over 15 SEN schools across the UK. Together, we create tailored, diverse, and appropriate educational experiences in a supportive environment that promotes engagement and inspires achievement.

We are seeking a caring and forward-thinking leader to join our team as Deputy Headteacher with curriculum responsibility. In this role, you will:

• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning across the school, focusing on inclusion and differentiated instruction for SEND students.
• Assess, monitor, record, and report on the learning needs, progress, and achievements of pupils, collaborating closely with the SENCo.
• Lead whole-school strategic planning and the ongoing development of the curriculum.
• Provide curriculum training for staff during training sessions and INSET, valuing both your own and others' professional development.
• 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.